Salomé Afonso’s steady rise through European middle-distance running has been built on consistency, composure and an increasing ability to deliver on the biggest stages.
The Portuguese athlete enjoyed a landmark 2025 indoor season, winning silver over 1500m and bronze over 3000m at the European Indoor Championships, before underlining her championship value outdoors at the SPAR European Cross Country Championships.
On home soil in Lagoa, Afonso was thrust into action almost on arrival. Fresh from an altitude camp in South Africa, cross-country racing was not part of the original winter plans.
But alongside her boyfriend and world 1500m champion Isaac Nader, she answered a late call from the host federation to run the mixed relay.
Taking over in 12th place, Afonso produced one of the standout splits of the day, clocking 4:35 on the third leg to haul Portugal back into contention. She handed over in fifth place to Nader, who kicked through the field to secure a much-hoped-for medal for the hosts.
Inspired by home support
There were anxious moments mid-race. “We had an expectation for a medal, but cross country is unpredictable,” she explained. “At one point we realised we were a bit further behind than we thought. Still, we believed we could recover and, in the end, we managed to get the silver medal.”
The atmosphere played a decisive role. Racing in front of a partisan crowd, Afonso felt the lift that only a home championship can provide. “It was crazy. The crowd was always pushing for us. It gives you a different vibe, a different strength, and it really makes a difference in the final result.”
On the shared experience with Nader, she added: “It’s funny because we’re together 24/7, and then we’re together again in the relay. Doing the journey together and then doing a relay together is a representation of that.”
World and European glory in sight
Lagoa capped a year in which 28-year-old Afonso confirmed her status as a breakthrough podium contender on the international stage. At Apeldoorn 2025, her silver medal over 1500m highlighted her tactical awareness and finishing speed, while the 3000m bronze demonstrated growing strength and range.
In addition, she also finished a fine second place for Portugal over 1500m at the Madrid 2025 European Athletics Team Championships 1st Division.
After an intense period of travel and competition, Afonso is set for a short Christmas break before returning to training, likely back to the South African sun and altitude in Potchefstroom. The focus then turns firmly to the winter ahead.
“The biggest goal is the World Indoors in Toruń, and then the European Championships in Birmingham,” she said.
As for distances, the 1500m remains her primary event, though she is keeping options open. “I think it will be the 1500, but there’s also a little space for the 5K. We’re still trying to understand it.”
With indoor medals secured, a memorable home championship behind her, and a training and racing partnership that brings both balance and motivation, Salomé Afonso heads into the new year with momentum firmly on her side.
