European Athletics President Dobromir Karamarinov has hailed the success of the first ever European Running Championships in Brussels-Leuven on 12-13 April.
For the first time ever, mass participants could compete in an official European Athletics championship event with elite athletes and they responded in huge numbers.
Biggest ever marathon
Among a total entry of 28,000, there were 12,500 entered for the marathon, running from Brussels to Leuven on Sunday, making it the largest marathon ever to have taken place in Belgium. King Philippe was the official race starter for the historic race.
The weekend also saw half marathon and 10km races take place in Leuven on Saturday and Sunday respectively with huge support across the whole course, embracing the new event.
"An incredible occasion"
He said: “The first ever European Running Championships in Brussels-Leuven has been an incredible occasion for our sport.
"For the first time ever, mass participants took part in an official European Athletics creating a unique atmosphere that inspired both elite athletes and recreational runners.
“Around 28,000 people took part over the weekend in 10km, half marathon and marathon races. The response from the running community to this new concept has been amazing. There were also thousands of people lining the streets in Brussels and Leuven showing the widespread enthusiasm for our sport.
“Congratulations to the Local Organising Committee, the volunteers and everyone involved in delivering such a successful start, exceeding all expectations for a brand new event. You have set a new standard - and we look towards the next edition of this event in Belgrade in 2027 with huge excitement and optimism.”
Chris Broadbent for European Athletics