Noah Lyles, Faith Kipyegon, Tara Davis-Woodhall and more track and field stars will miss the World Athletics Ultimate Championship in Budapest

As the first-ever World Athletics Ultimate Championship approaches in Budapest, track and field enthusiasts face the disappointment of not seeing some of the sport’s most celebrated athletes compete. The released entry list for the championship reveals several big names will not be participating due to various challenges, including injuries and other circumstances.

Among the notable absentees is Noah Lyles, the Olympic champion in the 100 meters. On Saturday, Lyles announced he would sit out the remainder of the season. Following an injury sustained during the 200 meters final at the USA Track and Field Championships, he was initially thought to be experiencing cramps, but it turned out to be a minor hamstring strain. Unfortunately, complications arose during his rehabilitation, preventing him from racing again this year. Prior to his injury, Lyles had showcased impressive form, matching his personal best and achieving a world-leading time of 9.79 seconds to clinch the 100m title at the same championships.

Another prominent figure missing from the inaugural event is Faith Kipyegon, a multiple-time world and Olympic champion. She has been struggling with a hamstring injury since June and, after pushing through a few Diamond League races, opted to conclude her season last month to focus on recovery.

Lilian Odira, the world champion in the 800 meters, has also announced her withdrawal from both the Ultimate Championship and the Athlos meet in London, as she has not yet fully recuperated from an illness.

In a further setback, Olympic long jump champion Tara Davis-Woodhall will also miss the championship following a serious car accident in August, which left her with a significant concussion. Although she initially hoped to participate, she took to Instagram to prioritize her health.

Africa’s fastest man, Ferdinand Omanyala, earned his spot at the event after a successful Diamond League season but had to withdraw following a severe foot injury that forced him to end his season last month. He was expected to be a strong contender in the 100m, highlighting the loss for Kenyan fans.

Meanwhile, Beatrice Chebet, a two-time Olympic and world champion, had already secured her place in the championship. However, her decision to take a year off to have a baby means the women’s 5,000m race in Budapest will be without its dominant athlete from the past two years.

As the event draws near, fans can only hope for a thrilling experience, despite the absence of these remarkable athletes.