Andy Diaz Hernandez delivered a sensational performance on Saturday at the Birmingham 2026 European Athletics Championships, soaring to a remarkable 18.15m in the second round to claim the men’s triple jump title and secure his first major outdoor crown.
Representing Italy, Diaz Hernandez unleashed a world lead, a national record, and the fourth-longest jump in history – placing him just behind legendary marks set by Jonathan Edwards (18.29m), Christian Taylor (18.21m), and Jordan A. Díaz Fortun (18.18m). After bouncing back from a narrow foul on his opening attempt, the reigning world and European indoor champion sealed his dominance with a 17.78m effort in the third round.
The podium was rounded out by stellar performances from his rivals. Pedro Pichardo claimed silver with a season’s best of 17.76m, marking his second consecutive European Championship podium finish. Andrea Dallavalle captured bronze with an impressive 17.37m opening-round jump, completing a brilliant double-medal podium finish for Italy