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Starting Friday, July 15 and lasting 10 days, World Athletics is putting on its championships for the world’s best track and field athletes. It’s the first world champs since 2019 and the first one ever to be hosted by the United States, taking place in the newly renovated Hayward Stadium in Eugene, Oregon, home of the University of Oregon. And unlike last year’s Olympics, these champs are open to fans—we’re looking forward to packed stadiums for the more than 20 events.
Similar to the Olympics, athletes have to qualify to make their country’s team, and compete for gold, silver, and bronze medals. Here, we’ll update you throughout the championships from July 15–July 24 on results, news, inspiring stories, and memorable moments.
RELATED: How to Watch the World Athletics Championships
Team USA Will Defend Its 4x400m Title
The United States 4×400 mixed relay team has automatically qualified for tonight’s final after coming in first place in the first heat. In each of the two heats, the top three teams had the opportunity to automatically qualify, with the next two fastest teams rounding out the eight final teams.
Team USA, made up by Elija Godwin, Kennedy Simon, Vernon Norwood, and Wadeline Jonathas, collectively ran 3:11.75. Running consistently in second place behind the Netherlands through the first three legs, it was anchor Jonathas (who also ran in the women’s 4x400m in Tokyo last year) who outkicked Eveline Saalberg of the Netherlands (3:12.63) for the win.
Those tuning into this first morning session of the World Championships were expecting Allyson Felix to compete in the event, but the five-time Olympian was not subbed in. But it is highly likely that Felix (who has announced her impending retirement) will make her final World Championship appearance in the final, set for 7:50 p.m., Pacific time tonight.
Besides the U.S., the Netherlands, Dominican Republic, Poland, Ireland, Jamaica, Italy, and Nigeria will compete in the final. — Malissa Rodenburg