Transport services return to normal at European Athletics Championships after security operation

WEB DESK: Transport services returned to normal at the European Athletics Championships early Sunday after a major security operation caused disruptions at Birmingham’s Alexander Stadium on Saturday evening, organisers said.

British media reported that several athletes, including Britain’s Amy Hunt, and thousands of spectators were unable to leave the venue for more than an hour following an incident involving armed police.

Organisers said in a statement that a man had been arrested on suspicion of fraud.

Services resumed normally early Sunday, allowing athletes and spectators to leave the stadium without further disruption.

“The safety and wellbeing of our spectators, athletes, workforce and the wider Championships’ family will always be our priority,” the statement added on Sunday.

“We recognise that the delays presented challenges for those affected and would like to thank everyone for their patience, understanding and cooperation throughout the evening.”

The statement did not provide further details about the incident or explain the scale of the security response.

Alexander Stadium was close to its 23,000 capacity for Saturday’s evening session, which concluded with Britain winning gold in both the men’s and women’s 4×100 metres relays.

Organisers later announced the cancellation of six medal ceremonies scheduled to take place after the final event.

In a post on X, the championships apologised for significant delays affecting spectators leaving the venue and said buses and coaches would “gradually” resume departures.

Hunt and her teammates are due to compete in Sunday’s mixed sprint relay, where she will attempt to win a record fourth gold medal at the championships.