Andorran Hurdler Eloi Vilella Eyes 2026 U23 Euros After Uneven Barcelona Debut

Andorran hurdler Eloi Vilella is targeting qualification for the 2026 European Athletics Championships in Birmingham, his final under-23 season, after describing his FC Barcelona track and field debut as uneven amid early-season nerves.

Vilella, whose specialty is the 400m hurdles, ran the 4x400m relay for the team. "That was my first competition of the season, so there were nerves and pressure to perform at my best, and it came out a bit irregular," he said. Though not a flat 400m specialist, he noted his competence in the distance led to his selection. He anticipates refinements in the months ahead as the group hones its optimal speed.

His preparation follows an intense schedule: five days weekly with three- to four-hour sessions mixing 90 minutes in the gym, technique, mobility, and track work. "It's a very demanding approach that delivers results but carries a price—mainly injuries," Vilella said. Currently, 10% to 15% of his training group are sidelined, making the method unpopular among peers. He emphasizes "invisible" training, including three years of monthly diet oversight by nutritionist Neus Serracanta, supplements like creatine and beta-alanine, and routine blood tests.

The last two years combined heavy physical demands with mental ease from solid outcomes—"very difficult and very easy," as he put it. Last year's qualifying marks were unattainable, but his progress now makes Birmingham realistic. The under-23 outdoor European Championships will run August 10-16, 2026, at Alexander Stadium, featuring 50 events over seven days.

Vilella views qualification alone as "a very good objective" against veteran rivals. "They're beasts who've trained for years," he said. If selected, he plans to deliver Andorra's best representation. "You give your top version, head held high. You always go in with your head held high."