David Behre has to cancel the World Athletics Championships

He had worked so hard for it it. However, David Behre, ERGO’s Accident Insurance Ambassador, had to withdraw from taking part at the World Para Athletics Championships in London at short notice. In an interview with us he explains his reasons for doing so and discusses his future plans.

It was supposed to be the sporting high point of this year for David Behre: defending his title at the World Athletics Championships in London. However, shortly before his start, the 30-year old world champion had to cancel his 400-metre race. David Behre had been fighting recurring injuries in recent months. And once again muscle problems prevented him from competing. We spoke to David Behre about the reasons for withdrawing from his race and what his future plans are.

David, you had to pull out of competing in the World Championships at short notice. What precisely happened?
David Behre: Unfortunately I had once again problems with my muscles. On Friday in training I felt that I had torn a fibre once again. At the crucial moment, my leg simply didn’t want to do what I wanted it to do. On Sunday morning I then decided together with my trainer, the doctors and physiotherapists that I would not line up at the start.

That must have been such a bitter blow just before the major championships. How are you feeling about it now?
Naturally, I am very sad. That’s one of the hardest decisions I have ever had to make in my whole life. But my team is fully behind me. And I’m a man not a machine. And that kind of thing can easily happen.

It’s also a shame that you couldn’t compete in the 4 x 100 metre relay either.
It was particularly tough about the relay because they were missing another key athlete in Felix Streng. It’s bitter and sad for my team colleagues as well. But I will remain here in London, cheer on the team and support them at the championships. That is just as important to me. 

How do things look for you personally in future?
I will now take a longer break and look after my body for two months. I simply have to free up my mind from sport. It’s a well-earned break for my body. The regeneration will be good for me so that I can enter the new season fully fit again. I am so looking forward to the next competition. The European Championships will be held in Berlin next year. I really want to take part in them – likewise the Paralympics in Tokyo in 2020.

Thank you for taking the time to talk to us David. We hope that you quickly regain your fitness and are able to fully attack the next season!