Keely Hodgkinson rival in dramatic 800m semi-final fall as Brit stays on track for European gold

13 Aug 2026 • 8:00 PM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

Keely Hodgkinson rival in dramatic 800m semi-final fall as Brit stays on track for European gold

  • Keely Hodgkinson safely progressed to the 800m final at the European Athletics Championships by winning her semi-final in a time of 1:57.38 on Thursday, keeping her on track for another major international medal.
  • Netherlands athlete Femke Broeders-Bol finished just behind Hodgkinson to secure automatic qualification, as she looked comfortable despite stepping up from her customary 400m hurdles event this season.
  • World leader and favourite Audrey Werro suffered a dramatic fall on the final bend of her semi-final after being clipped, eventually finishing last in order to remain eligible to appeal to race officials, and she was subsequently granted a place in the final.
  • Britain's Jemma Reekie won the first semi-final in 1:58.61 to qualify alongside Anais Bourgoin and Veronica Vancardo, while Lithuania's Gabija Galvydyte was advanced to the final by referees after also falling in the incident.
  • Following her race, Hodgkinson voiced sympathy for Werro and stated that she thrives on high-level competition, expressing hopes for a clean final at Birmingham's Alexander Stadium.

IN FULL

Newswav Malaysia Best News App

Newswav is an online content aggregator and obtains its content from different online sources. The content in the app do not belong to Newswav nor do they reflect the opinions of Newswav and its staff. Your use of this app indicates your understanding and acceptance of this information.

Newswav Sdn. Bhd. (201701008480 (1222645-M)) 2026 All Rights Reserved