Olympic champion Keely Hodgkinson has intensified her criticism of West Ham United, accusing the Premier League club of obstructing London's bid to host the 2029 World Athletics Championships.
Plans to stage the prestigious global event at the London Stadium in 2029 are reportedly in jeopardy, as West Ham, who hold a long-term lease for the multi-purpose venue, are said to be refusing to vacate for the proposed September dates.
The club has previously asserted its priority use of the stadium, originally built for the 2012 Olympics in the English capital, during the football season.
The 24-year-old 800m gold medallist, who secured her victory in Paris two years ago, initially sparked a strong reaction from some West Ham supporters earlier this week with a pointed post on X, the social media platform.
She wrote: "The GB team will bring back more medals to that stadium than west ham have seen in their entire history."
Following up on her initial remarks, Hodgkinson issued a more considered statement, further emphasising the broader implications for British athletics.
"Thoroughly enjoyed the rattled comments under this, but in all seriousness, to have a global championships back in London would be incredible for our sport," she posted.
"I didn’t think we’d get the opportunity again during my career, the british crowd would fill it everyday."
Hodgkinson, who won world indoor gold to continue her strong start to the season last weekend, expressed her frustration, adding: "Seems silly for London to be taken out of the running, over a football team not compromising on a stadium they pay RENT for when it’s only a few extra away games, everything’s always all about money and never moments. let us have this moment!!! pretty please."
West Ham United has been approached by the Press Association for comment regarding the ongoing dispute.
