The competition timetable for the European Athletics U18 Championships in Rieti has been revised due to the high temperatures forecast for the coming days. Organisers have decided to bring forward the start of all morning sessions on each of the four competition days, from Thursday 16 July to Sunday 19 July.
Morning competition will now begin at 8.30am, with each session finishing approximately 30 minutes earlier than originally scheduled.
"In light of the latest weather forecasts European Athletics, in consultation with the Technical Delegates and the Medical Delegate, has decided to revise the competition timetable," reads the official statement from European Athletics.
Weather forecasts indicate temperatures well above 30–35°C in Rieti throughout the championships.
The afternoon sessions remain unchanged and will start as follows:
- Thursday 16 July: 3:30 p.m.
- Friday 17 July: 4:00 p.m.
- Saturday 18 July: 3:40 p.m.
- Sunday 19 July: 3:55 p.m.
The timetable adjustment reflects the organisers' commitment to protecting the 1,104 athletes from 48 countries competing at the Raul Guidobaldi Stadium, as well as coaches, team officials, volunteers and the many spectators expected to attend. Interest in the championships continues to grow, with ticket sales remaining strong ahead of the opening day.