Rhasidat Adeleke will not compete in Ireland's women’s 4x400m relay squad set to compete at the World Athletics Championships.
Anticipation had been high for the Dublin star's participation in Saturday's 4x400m heats in Budapest, especially after her notable fourth-place finish in the world 400m final on Wednesday.
The decision was announced this afternoon, following extensive deliberations involving Athletics Ireland's team management, Adeleke, her coach, and the medical team.
The Irish women's 4x400m team has been dealt a massive blow with the withdrawal of Rhasidat Adeleke.https://t.co/HOmWYDPxj5
— Cathal Dennehy (@Cathal_Dennehy) August 25, 2023
A statement released by Athletics Ireland clarified the situation: "Rhasidat Adeleke (Tallaght A.C.) will miss the Women’s 4x400m Relay this weekend at the World Athletics Championships in Budapest."
"The 20-year-old made history this season becoming the first Irishwoman to break 50 seconds in the 400m, winning the NCAA Division One title in the event, before finishing fourth in Wednesday’s World Championship final."
💥4TH IN THE WORLD FOR RHASIDAT ADELEKE💥
20-year-old Rhasidat Adeleke has finished 4th in her first global final🙌🤩 An outstanding championship performance & she did us proud🤩💚 Many more big days ahead for the Tallaght star👏🇮🇪
⏱️50.13@Ask123ie #IrishAthletics pic.twitter.com/B7ymLNRDJD— Athletics Ireland (@irishathletics) August 23, 2023
While Adeleke's absence certainly leaves a gap, the Irish relay team remains committed and prepared. Sharlene Mawdsley (Newport A.C.), Sophie Becker (Raheny Shamrocks A.C.), Roisin Harrison (Emerald A.C.), Kelly McGrory (Tir Chonaill A.C.), and Niamh Murray (Bray Runners) all stand ready for selection as they approach the heats.
The statement indicated that the "starting quartet and running order will be confirmed by Saturday morning."
In light of this development, Ireland's ranking in the 4x400m heats sees a change. Adeleke's absence positions the nation as 16th out of the 17 participating countries, a significant shift from the projected sixth place that her inclusion would have secured.
