Nigerian sprinter Israel Okon has withdrawn from the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow after suffering a hamstring injury, dealing a significant blow to Team Nigeria’s athletics campaign.
The 19-year-old confirmed on Monday that he would not compete, ruling himself out of both the men’s 200 metres and the 4x100m relay, where he had been expected to strengthen Nigeria’s medal hopes.
Speaking about the setback, Okon reflected on what has been the best season of his young career while expressing confidence that he would return stronger.
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“First and foremost, I thank God Almighty for His grace and blessings. I’m truly grateful to have achieved my first sub-10 in the 100m and, after three years of running 20.87s in the 200m, I finally broke the 20-second barrier.
“Unfortunately, I won’t be competing at the Commonwealth Games due to a hamstring injury, but I’m focused on my recovery and coming back stronger next season.
“Wishing all my friends and Team Nigeria the very best. Go make history and make Nigeria proud.”
Okon enjoyed a breakthrough 2026 season, posting a personal best of 9.91 seconds in the 100m after also recording another sub-10-second performance of 9.99 seconds earlier in the year.
He also broke the 20-second barrier in the 200m for the first time, clocking 19.94 seconds during the NCAA East First Round in Lexington.
His withdrawal leaves the Athletics Federation of Nigeria with adjustments to make ahead of the relay event, with Kayinsola Ajayi, Fakorede Adekalu, Udodi Onwuzurike, Alaba Akintola, and Favour Ashe among the available sprint options.
