Zharnel Hughes secures 200m silver Birmingham; Ansah sets national record, wins title in 19.95

2026 European Athletics Championships: Zharnel Hughes secures 200m silver, Germany’s Owen Ansah wins title

The Great Britain athlete was hoping to reclaim the title he won in 2022, but took silver in 20.16 behind Germany’s Owen Ansah, who won in 19.95, while Italy’s Eseosa Fostine Desalu completed the podium (20.26).

Zharnel Hughes was forced to settle for silver in the men’s 200m at the 2026 European Athletics Championships after Germany’s Owen Ansah ran a new national record and personal best to claim the title at the Alexander Stadium in Birmingham on Friday (14 August).

Home favourite Hughes was looking to reclaim the title he won in 2022, after missing the 2024 championships in Rome.

And he got off to a great start and came into the home straight slightly ahead of the field, but in the last 40m, he started to fade, as Ansah powered through to claim the win in 19.95 seconds.

The German Anti-Doping Agency has however alleged Ansah refused a doping test last month, which could eventually impact this result – although there is no suggestion he has taken any prohibited substances.

Hughes crossed the line in 20.16 for his seventh European Championships medal.

“Today’s race was a good one,” he reflected. “I felt good and came round the bend with so much speed I thought I was out of control. I did my best to navigate it as best as I could and control the lactic (acid).

“But suddenly Ansah was away from me 20 metres from the end. It sucks but I gave my all . I am pleased to add silver to my European collection and I am here to get more. I am looking forward to joining the guys now and focusing for the relay.”

Italy’s Tokyo 2020 Olympic 4x100m champion Eseosa Fostine Desalu , edged out defending champion Timothé Mumenthaler for bronze, after both athletes finished in 20.26.

Picture by 2026 Getty Images

Athletics | European Championships | Birmingham | United Kingdom