Nigerian sprinter Israel Okon has pulled out of the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow. He suffered a hamstring injury, according to PUNCH Sports Extra.
Okon announced on Monday that he would not compete. This news comes just two days before the start of the men’s 200m event.
The 19-year-old’s withdrawal is a big blow for Team Nigeria’s athletics team. He was also set to run in the men’s 4x100m relay, where he was expected to help Nigeria win medals.
Even though he is disappointed about missing the Games, Okon has a positive outlook on his 2026 season so far.
“First and foremost, I thank God Almighty for His grace and blessings. I’m truly grateful to have achieved my first sub-10 in the 100m and, after three years of running 20.87s in the 200m, I finally broke the 20-second barrier.
“Unfortunately, I won’t be competing at the Commonwealth Games due to a hamstring injury, but I’m focused on my recovery and coming back stronger next season.
“Wishing all my friends and Team Nigeria the very best. Go make history and make Nigeria proud.”
Okon won the national 100m title in 2025. He set a personal best of 9.91 seconds at the LSU Bernie Moore Stadium in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, in May 2026. Earlier this year, he also ran 9.99 seconds at the University of Kentucky Outdoor Track Facility in Lexington.
He broke the 20-second mark in the 200m as well. He posted a personal best of 19.94 seconds during the NCAA East First Round at the University of Kentucky Outdoor Track Facility in Lexington.
Okon’s withdrawal creates a gap in Nigeria’s sprint team, especially for the 4x100m relay. The Athletics Federation of Nigeria and the coaching staff will need to adjust their plans for the competition.
The athletes still available for the relay include Kayinsola Ajayi, Fakorede Adekalu, Udodi Onwuzurike, Alaba Akintola, and Favour Ashe.
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