HUDSON-SMITH WINS THIRD EUROPEAN 400M TITLE AT BIRMINGHAM

Matt Hudson-Smith won the European Athletics Championship 400 metres final at Alexander Stadium in Birmingham, clocking 44.17 seconds. Muhammad Abdallah Kounta of France took silver in 44.40, whilst Jonas Phijffers of the Netherlands claimed bronze in 44.41, which constituted a Dutch national record. Hudson-Smith became the first man to win three European 400m titles. The victory came after he finished second in his semifinal behind Phijffers, who ran 44.63 seconds.

Hudson-Smith had faced questions about a possible injury following BBC coverage of his semifinal performance. After the final, he clarified that he was not injured, stating his strategy had been to "survive and advance" by conserving energy in the earlier rounds. He expressed frustration at the BBC for suggesting he carried an injury, saying broadcasters should "come with the facts". Hudson-Smith, who began his athletic career at Birchfield Harriers at approximately nine years old, drew lane nine in the final, which he described as suiting his running style by allowing him to reach the straight quickly.

Speaking after his victory, Hudson-Smith emphasised the personal significance of winning at Alexander Stadium in his home city of Birmingham. "This is my home. I have been here since I was nine. I know this track like the back of my hand," he said. He added that he knew he was "the best in the world" on paper and credited his coach's guidance in executing the race plan. Hudson-Smith noted that the stand bearing his name was not at full capacity, attributing this to ticket pricing concerns.