Empty seats raise concerns at European Athletics Championships in Birmingham

The European Athletics Championships at Birmingham's Alexander Stadium faced criticism as nearly 10,000 seats were empty during the women's 100m final on August 10. Amy Hunt claimed her first senior title in front of a crowd of 13,623, despite the stadium's capacity of 23,000. Ticket prices have been cited as a key issue, with fans expressing disappointment over high costs and insufficient attendance. Organizers claim sales have exceeded expectations for upcoming sessions, although critics argue accessibility and transport issues deterred local attendance. The championships mark the first time the event is held in the UK in its 92-year history.

• 4:12 PMYahoo Sports — Criticism as thousands of seats empty at Europeans
• 4:12 PMBBC Sport — Criticism as thousands of seats empty at Europeans