Belgium has withdrawn from the mixed relay triathlon competition at the Paris Olympics due to a unfortunate incident that occurred during the Seine river swim. The athlete who took part in the swim, Claire Michel, fell ill and had to be hospitalized with E. coli.
Following the hospitalization of Michel, the Belgian National Olympic Committee made the decision to withdraw the team from the competition. Unfortunately, there are no more swimmers who are willing to swim in the river as part of the team, leading to the inevitable withdrawal.
Michel, who was ranked 38th in the final standings of the triathlon competition, has been in the hospital for four days as she recovers from the illness. This turn of events has undoubtedly been disappointing for both the athlete and the Belgian team.
It is always difficult when unforeseen circumstances such as illness impact an athlete’s ability to compete. The health and well-being of the athletes should always be the top priority, and in this case, the decision to withdraw from the competition was made in the best interest of the team.
While it is unfortunate that Belgium will not be able to compete in the mixed relay triathlon, the focus now shifts to supporting Claire Michel in her recovery and ensuring that all necessary measures are taken to prevent similar incidents in the future. The safety and health of the athletes must always come first in any sporting event.
