UK Athletics Championships & World Trials
Location: Manchester Regional Track Arena Dates: 8-9 July
How to Watch: Live stream on the Sport News Center website and app or on the BBC iPlayer
Due to a season plagued by injuries, UK’s Jake Wightman has decided not to defend his 1500m championship title at the World Championships in Budapest in August.
Wightman, a Scotsman, stunned audiences last year in Eugene when he outpaced Olympic champion Jakob Ingebrigtsen to grab an unexpected gold. The 28-year-old athlete later secured a Commonwealth 1500m bronze and a European 800m silver, but a stress fracture in his foot earlier this year has sidelined him.
Having yet to compete this season, Wightman had already planned to bypass the UK Championships.
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As the current champion, Wightman was guaranteed a spot in Budapest even without participating in the trials. However, he has chosen not to compete.
Wightman stated on Instagram, “I’ve always thought I had enough time to fully recover from my injuries, but that time has unfortunately run out. As a result, I will be unable to compete at the Worlds, which has been tough to accept. I could have risked competing in Budapest, but the possibility of compromising my Olympic year makes this decision clear.”
This announcement comes after Wightman withdrew from the Diamond League meet in Lausanne last week, which was supposed to mark his return to competition.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Jake Wightman injury
Why won’t Jake Wightman be defending his 1500m title at the World Championships in Budapest?
Jake Wightman will not be defending his 1500m title due to an injury-riddled season, which has prevented him from training and competing effectively. He suffered a stress fracture in his foot earlier in the year.
What other achievements does Jake Wightman have in his career?
In addition to his World Championship 1500m title, Jake Wightman has also earned a Commonwealth 1500m bronze and a European 800m silver medal.
What was Jake’s planned comeback race?
Jake was scheduled to return to competitive racing in the Diamond League meet in Lausanne. However, he had to withdraw, further delaying his comeback.
What did Jake Wightman say about his decision to not defend his title?
Jake expressed on Instagram that he believed he had enough time to recover fully from his injuries but unfortunately, time has run out. He’s deeply disappointed but considers the decision to be the obvious one, given the risk of jeopardizing his Olympic year.
Was Jake Wightman expected to compete in the UK Championships?
No, Wightman had already planned to bypass the UK Championships even before deciding not to participate in the World Championships in Budapest.
More about Jake Wightman injury
- Jake Wightman’s Official Instagram
- World Athletics Official Website
- UK Athletics Championships & World Trials
- Diamond League Official Website
- Jake Wightman’s Bio on Wikipedia
5 comments
Injuries are the worst, was so excited to see him in Budapest. Take care Jake, health comes first. See u at the Olympics.
Gutted for Jake, he was amazing in Eugene last year. This season just aint the same without him. get well soon champ!
that stress fracture mustve been serious! really hope it doesnt affect his Olympic year. Wishing you a speedy recovery Jake!
hate to see it… a great athlete like Wightman having to sit out due to injury. This is just tough.
So disappointed that Jake won’t be in Budapest, but it’s the right decision. You gotta protect your body first, no medal is worth a long term damage.