World record holder Tobi Amusan made a striking start to her 2026 season. The Nigerian sprinter finished second in the women’s 200m at Jamaica’s Velocity Fest. Amusan clocked a season-best 23.25 seconds, showing versatility beyond her 100m hurdles specialty.
Jamaican sprint legend Elaine Thompson-Herah won the race with 22.61 seconds. Another local star, Ackera Nugent, placed third in 23.35 seconds. This outing marked Amusan’s first competition since the 2025 World Athletics Championships in Tokyo. She was Nigeria’s only medallist at Tokyo, earning a silver medal in her signature event.
Her performance in Jamaica reflects solid preparation for upcoming international competitions. Amusan is confirmed for the Prefontaine Classic in Eugene on July 4. She will return to her 100m hurdles specialty, aiming to defend her top form. The Diamond League event at Hayward Field promises fierce competition this season.
Amusan will face Olympic champion Masai Russell and two-time world champion Danielle Williams. World Championships bronze medallist Grace Stark will also compete in the strong field. Amusan set the 12.12-second world record and won her first world title in Eugene in 2022.
She later claimed the 2023 Diamond League final title at the same venue.Over the past decade, Amusan has dominated hurdles, winning three consecutive Diamond League finals. Her 2026 campaign signals continued excellence and readiness for global championships ahead.
