Noah Lyles reveals heartwarming reason for missing World Indoor Championships in Poland
.jpg)
Reading Time: 3min | Thu. 29.01.26. | 22:00
Despite his absence from Poland, the four-time world 200m champion will not be completely sidelined during the indoor season
Reigning Olympic 100m champion Noah Lyles has opened up on his decision to skip the 2026 World Indoor Championships in Kujawy Pomorze, Poland, scheduled for Friday, 20 to Sunday, 22 March.
Follow our WhatsApp channel for more news
Lyles confirmed that the global indoor showpiece falls too close to his wedding, which is set for Saturday, 4 April, making it difficult for him to commit fully to the championships.
While the decision means fans will miss seeing him on the World Indoor stage, the American sprint star stressed that it was a matter of timing rather than a lack of interest in indoor racing.
Despite his absence from Poland, the four-time world 200m champion will not be completely sidelined during the indoor season.
Lyles revealed that he plans to contest a select number of indoor races as part of his build-up to the outdoor campaign, including lining up in the 60 meters at the US National Championships.
“I will be at the US National Championships for the 60 meters. There are a lot of people who think that just because you were the big dog, indoor is not important.
Indoor is the best place to get the most energy contained in one spot for track and field,” Lyles said.
In recent years, Lyles has rarely featured on the indoor circuit. He missed the 2025 World Indoor Championships but competed at the 2024 edition, where he claimed a silver medal in the 60m.
Nonetheless, he was keen to dismiss the notion that indoor competition is insignificant for established athletes, emphasising its value to both performers and fans.
According to Lyles, indoor track offers a unique and electrifying environment, with the compact setting amplifying energy and enhancing the overall spectacle. He believes this atmosphere plays a crucial role in keeping the sport vibrant and engaging.
The timing of his wedding, however, has forced him to reflect on how to balance elite competition with important commitments away from the track.
“Unfortunately, I can't because it's too close to the wedding. I guess for this year, I wonder about the balancing of quitting and other priorities off the track,” he added.
Looking ahead, Lyles assured fans that his reduced indoor schedule does not signal a step back from competition. He expects to race frequently throughout the year, even though his calendar will ease slightly after the indoor season.
Once the Diamond League circuit gains momentum, the American star says he will be fully involved and competing consistently.
“Throughout the year, yeah. Heavily. Heavily. There might be, of course, after indoor, it's going to be a lot slower. But once the diamond leagues start picking up, I'll be there,” he said.
Lyles also sent a clear message to rivals and supporters alike, promising plenty of action once he returns to full competition.
“I'll be running. You're going to get your heavy dose of Noah Lyles. I promise you that. And for anybody who wants to race, come get some,” he offered.
