Pole vault world-record holder Mondo Duplantis is experimenting with a longer 22-step run-up, moving away from his usual 20 steps in a bid to generate more power for the coming season. The Sweden star, who has broken the world record 15 times since 2020, cleared 6.31m in March. After trying the change for the first time in the indoor season, he plans to repeat it before the season opens in Shaoxing. Faith Kipyegon, meanwhile, runs 5000m to check her form.
India and Russia’s athletics federations are in talks to build a long-term partnership focused on joint training camps and grassroots development. The plan envisages Russian athletes competing in Indian national events and Indian athletes training in Russia, along with exchange for coaches. However, the AFI says no final programme has been locked in.
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Athletics Federation of India spokesperson Adille Sumariwalla says over 90% of athletic tracks in India are substandard, citing poor materials, construction quality, and even inaccurate measurements. Following directives from World Athletics, the AFI will now actively participate in track certification. The move aims to improve track standards so athletes across the country compete on safer, more reliable surfaces.
India has been placed on the Athletics Integrity Unit’s list of nations facing an “extremely high” risk of doping, alongside Russia. AIU chair David Howman warned that while the doping situation has long been high-risk, India’s domestic anti-doping programme is not strong enough relative to that threat.
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