Kristjan Čeh defended his European discus title in Birmingham, breaking the championship record three times. His best throw of 72.51m secured gold, surpassing Mykolas Alekna’s previous record of 69.78m. Čeh, the 2022 world champion, exceeded the 70-metre mark four times.

Alekna, the Lithuanian world record-holder, earned silver with a first-round throw of 69.89m, showing recovery from a torn pectoral muscle. Henrik Janssen from Germany took bronze with a season’s best of 69.53m. Dani Ståhl, the world champion, finished fourth with a best of 68.22m. Read more racing coverage.

Čeh noted the competition’s high level, attributing his success to perfect conditions and respect for his opponents. He emphasized the boost from competing against top athletes, highlighting the event’s historic significance. Related: English breaks 48-year-old European 800m championship record.

This original Runner World brief is based on reporting from Athletics Weekly. Visit the source for its complete reporting, context and any later corrections.