Luca Kozák Looks Ahead to European Championships, Bence Halász Speaks of a Once-in-a-Lifetime Opportunity

Hungarian athletes are navigating a unique season as they prepare for both the European Athletics Championships and the first-ever World Athletics Final. Typically, years with Olympic Games see the European Championships take a secondary role, but this year presents a different scenario. The World Athletics Final is scheduled for September 11-13 in Budapest, an event the international governing body (WA) intends as the pinnacle for seasons without Olympic or World Championships.

The field for both events is expected to be highly competitive. Athletes like Luca Kozák, Attila Molnár (400m), and Ármin Szabados (hammer throw) are currently on the borderline of qualification for the World Final based on world rankings. However, as the host nation, Hungary is guaranteed two wildcard entries for the World Final.

Among the Hungarian contingent, Olympic silver medalist Bence Halász is considered a near certainty to compete. Halász recently achieved his season's best throw of 81.65 meters at the Gyulai Memorial, securing third place. When asked by Magyar Nemzet about the significance of the European Championships versus the World Final, Halász emphasized the distinct opportunities each presents.

"For Europeans, the importance of the European Championships needs no explanation. Regarding the World Final, it's questionable whether hammer throw will even be included if it's held again, and it's certain it won't be in Budapest again. From this perspective, this will definitely be a unique opportunity," Halász stated. He expressed satisfaction with his technique and stability but noted that his speed is still lacking, preventing him from achieving greater distances. Halász believes his form is precisely timed for peak performance at both the European Championships and the World Final, having intentionally limited his competitions this year.

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For Europeans, the importance of the European Championships needs no explanation. Regarding the World Final, it's questionable whether hammer throw will even be included if it's held again, and it's certain it won't be in Budapest again. From this perspective, this will definitely be a unique opportunity.