Criticism as thousands of seats empty at Europeans

Nearly 10,000 seats remained vacant at Birmingham's Alexander Stadium during the European Athletics Championships on Monday evening, despite a crowd of 13,623 watching 24-year-old Britain sprinter Amy Hunt win her first senior international title. Athletics supporters attributed the low attendance to high ticket prices, describing them as "extortionate."

BBC commentator Steve Cram noted the presence of "little disappointment" in spectator numbers, particularly in the back straight sections. Birmingham 2026 organizers, however, expressed delight with ticket sales, having surpassed targets, with Friday, Saturday and Sunday evening sessions nearing capacity. Category A tickets for the home straight cost £150 with no concessions for juniors, while similar seats in Rome cost £75 two years prior.

Jenny Meadows, Keely Hodgkinson's co-coach, criticized the stadium's affordability, while British Olympian Sharron Davies called for more affordable events to inspire generations. The Commonwealth Games may have impacted attendance, as many fans attending both events may not exist. Some fans criticized the lack of transport infrastructure, with shuttle buses required from the city center, and park and ride services available.

Despite the criticism, organizers assured that attendances would rise as the championships progressed, with half of all tickets priced under £30.