Britain’s relay dominance extends medal tally at European Championships

Great Britain’s sprint squad delivered a decisive double victory at the European Athletics Championships in Birmingham, with both the men’s and women’s 4x100m relay teams claiming gold. The results have elevated Britain’s overall medal count to 12, including six golds, positioning the host nation in strong contention as the championships enter their final day.

Amy Hunt secured her third gold medal of the event, following earlier triumphs in the 100m and 200m. Hunt, who is attempting to become the first athlete in the 92-year history of the championships to win four medals at a single edition, will now turn her attention to the mixed 4x100m relay on Sunday. Her performance has established her as the standout sprinter of the tournament, having held off Dina Asher-Smith in the 200m final to complete her individual treble.

Asher-Smith, 30, matched the record for the most gold medals won at a single European Championships with her seventh title. The victory also equalled Polish sprinter Irena Szewinska’s overall record of 10 medals at the event. Asher-Smith, who last achieved a sprint treble at these championships in 2018, now faces a decision on whether to compete in the new mixed relay event, which could potentially see her become the outright most successful athlete in the competition’s history.

In the women’s final, the British quartet, featuring Imani-Lara Lansiquot and 21-year-old student midwife Success Eduan, crossed the line in 42.05 seconds. Their performance was more than a second clear of second-placed Switzerland, showcasing a dominant display of speed and baton exchange efficiency that underscored their status as reigning champions.

Just 15 minutes earlier, the men’s team had secured their own gold in 38.45 seconds. Led by 100m champion Romell Glave, the team included Jeremiah Azu, Louie Hinchliffe, and 200m silver medallist Zharnel Hughes. The victory came after a strong lead was maintained throughout the final, with the team safely navigating the baton changes to huge cheers inside the Alexander Stadium.

Despite the double victory, Italy remains the table-toppers with 17 medals heading into the final day of competition. The results in Birmingham highlight the depth of Britain’s sprint programme, with Hunt’s emergence as a global contender complementing Asher-Smith’s established legacy on the continental stage.