Audrey Werro Wins European 800m Gold, Beats Hodgkinson 2026

Audrey Werro wins European 800m gold in a thrilling final, holding off Britain’s Keely Hodgkinson to claim the title in a championship record 1:54.81. The Swiss star led from the front, with Hodgkinson taking silver in 1:55.01 and Femke Broeders-Bol earning bronze in 1:55.54.

Race Recap: A Classic 800m Final

The much-anticipated showdown between Werro, Hodgkinson, and Broeders-Bol lived up to its billing. Werro took control early, setting a blistering pace that left the field scrambling. Hodgkinson, the reigning Olympic champion, pushed hard on the final lap but couldn’t close the gap, finishing just three metres behind.

Werro’s victory was particularly impressive given she had suffered a heavy fall in the semi-finals, which left her with a cut on her knee. Despite the injury, she delivered a career-best performance, cementing her status as the new dominant force in the event.

Key Moments and Turning Points

The race turned in the final 200 metres, where Werro’s superior speed and endurance proved decisive. Hodgkinson, who was aiming for a third consecutive European title, had no answer to Werro’s surge. Broeders-Bol, a 400m hurdles specialist, surprised many by staying in contention for a medal, showcasing her versatility.

Results and Analysis

Werro’s winning time is a championship record and the third-fastest of her career. Hodgkinson’s silver adds to her impressive resume, which includes Olympic gold and world indoor titles. Broeders-Bol’s bronze is a remarkable achievement in only her first major 800m final.

What This Means for the Future of Women’s 800m

This race signals a shift in the women’s 800m hierarchy. Werro has now beaten Hodgkinson twice in 2025, including a comprehensive victory in Stockholm in June. With the World Championships approaching, these two are set to renew their rivalry, and fans can expect more thrilling battles.

• Audrey Werro’s championship record cements her as the new favourite for global titles.
• Keely Hodgkinson remains a top contender, but will need to adjust her tactics to counter Werro’s front-running style.
• Femke Broeders-Bol’s performance suggests she could become a serious threat in the 800m, adding depth to the event.

FAQ

This race will be remembered as one of the great European 800m finals, showcasing the incredible talent and determination of these elite athletes. With the rivalry between Werro and Hodgkinson heating up, the upcoming championships promise more excitement.

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