Hyrox faces hygiene questions after Beijing athlete continues race
Hyrox says it sanitised equipment and replaced carpet sections after an athlete reportedly soiled herself during a Beijing event.
Hyrox is facing questions over race hygiene and officials’ response after an athlete reportedly continued competing during a Beijing event after soiling herself.
Footage of the athlete circulated online, prompting some viewers to praise her determination and others to question whether she should have been permitted to continue. Hyrox said it carried out a “major cleanup operation” after the event, including sanitising equipment and replacing sections of carpet.
The German fitness company acknowledged legitimate hygiene concerns but urged participants and the public not to direct their anger at the athlete. Her identity was later disclosed online, and Hyrox said she subsequently received threats of violence.
“There is no place in our community for threats of violence or encouragement to harm an athlete,” Hyrox said. The company said anyone found engaging in such behaviour would be permanently banned from all Hyrox events.
Some participants reportedly sought an apology and refunds, claiming they had been forced to come into contact with contaminated equipment. Competitor Joe Ho criticised Hyrox’s response and called for the organisation to accept responsibility and consider refunds, credits or other compensation.
Hyrox races alternate 1km runs with exercises including sled pushes, burpee jumps, indoor rowing and sandbag lunges. Founded in Hamburg in 2017, the competition debuted in mainland China in late 2024.
