800m 'a big change' but hurdler Bol is ready

Dutchwoman Femke Bol announced on Oct 10 that she is switching from the 400 metres hurdles to the 800m and will start competing in her new event in 2026.

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While the one-lap hurdles world champion has often played second fiddle to world-record holder Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone of the United States on the Olympic stage, Bol has collected five straight Diamond League titles in her signature event.

"The 400m hurdles provided me with unforgettable moments and shaped me into the athlete I am today... I'm really excited to share the next chapter of my career," the four-time Olympic medallist wrote on Instagram.

"It's a big change, it's uncertain and challenging, but I'm ready to put in the work, surrounded by an amazing team and enjoy this new journey.

"The 800m is new and unfamiliar territory, and that's precisely what makes it so interesting."

Britain's 800m Olympic champion Keely Hodgkinson said she was eager to share the starting line with her good friend Bol.