More than 6,300 fans celebrated a magnificent athletics festival in Düsseldorf. At the ISTAF INDOOR in the PSD BANK DOME, they witnessed Jakub Szymański in top form as he set a new Polish record over 60 meter hurdles and stormed to the top of the world rankings (7.47 sec). “It was just great, I feel at home at the ISTAF INDOOR. The second title at my second race – a fantastic meeting. I would love to come back,” rejoiced the 21-year-old hurdles youngster.

His 31-year-old compatriot Piotr Lisek triumphed in the pole vault. The Pole fought a great duel with Sam Kendricks (USA). The winner was only determined at 5.82 meters. With the better end for Piotr Lisek, who had one less miss overall. Both cleared 5.75 meters. “It was so loud today. I just love jumping here,” said Piotr Lisek after his fifth victory at the ISTAF. The women’s long jump was this time not won by fan idol Malaika Mihambo (three failed attempts) – but by her compatriot Mikaelle Assani. With 6.64 meters, the 21-year-old celebrated her first victory on one of the world’s biggest athletics stages.

On the fast blue track, favorite Amber Hughes (USA; 8.06 sec, 60 meter hurdles), Shashalee Forbes (Jamaica, 60 meters), who set a new personal best (7.11 sec), and Emmanuel Matadi (Liberia; 60 meters, 6.57 sec) secured titles at the ISTAF INDOOR. The premiere of the Paralympic sprinters was won by double world champion Maxcel Amo Manu (Italy), who set a new ISTAF record of 7.04 seconds. “This victory is very emotional for me, because it was an absolutely great atmosphere that pushed me a lot,” said the Italian, who had already won the Paralympic sprint at the ISTAF in Berlin’s Olympic Stadium in 2021.

Meeting Director Martin Seeber: “This ISTAF INDOOR with 6,350 fans was incredibly atmospheric and showed all facets of athletics. The great feedback from the athletes and spectators was overwhelming. Düsseldorf was once again a terrific stage for athletics.