Hodgkinson and Odira Withdraw from Weltklasse Zurich 800m — image accompanying Marathon Handbook's report. Image accompanying Marathon Handbook’s report; reduced and presented for news commentary with the attributed report. View the complete source report.
Keely Hodgkinson and Lilian Odira have withdrawn from the 800m race at Weltklasse Zurich. Hodgkinson, the Olympic champion, cited recovery issues from the European Championships. Odira, the world champion, mentioned feeling weaker since the Lausanne meet.
The race, originally featuring five athletes, will now be run by three. The withdrawals impact the Diamond League’s season standings, as Zurich was one of the last opportunities for points. The race was expected to be a key event in the season. Read more culture coverage.
The absence of Hodgkinson and Odira leaves Audrey Werro as the favorite, having remained unbeaten outdoors this season. The Diamond League’s final will be held in Brussels on September 4 and 5. Related: Hodgkinson and Werro Set for Zurich Showdown in Diamond League.
This original Runner World brief is based on reporting from Marathon Handbook. Visit the source for its complete reporting, context and any later corrections.
Reader questions
Questions about this report
What should runners know about Hodgkinson and Odira Withdraw from Weltklasse Zurich 800m?
Olympic and world champions cite health issues for their absence from the race. Keely Hodgkinson and Lilian Odira have withdrawn from the 800m race at Weltklasse Zurich. Hodgkinson, the Olympic champion, cited recovery issues from the European Championships. Odira, the world champion, mentioned feeling weaker since the Lausanne meet.
When did Runner World publish this culture brief?
Runner World published this brief on August 25, 2026. The underlying Marathon Handbook report was dated August 25, 2026.
Where can readers find the complete original report?
This summary is based on reporting from Marathon Handbook. The attributed source link in the article leads to the publisher’s complete report.
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