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Zurich

Zürich

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Two weeks prior to the annual gathering of athletics stars at Letzigrund Stadium, Weltklasse Zürich announces the star cast for the men’s 400m, 800m, and 1500m – and no less than five Olympic champions.
Zurich

Top-class Casts for Track Events Include Kirani James, David Rudisha, and Asbel Kiprop

400m men: James, Merritt, Makwala, and van Niekerk

Kirani James (GRN) and LaShawn Merritt (USA) have both won world championship and Olympic titles before. And they are the most frequently mentioned contenders for more triumph – both in the Beijing final and in Zurich – again this year. Winning the two races may not be a matter between the two of them, however: Isaac Makwala (BOT) and South Africa‘s Wayde van Niekerk (RSA) will not make it easy for them. The two co-favourites will be happy to return to Switzerland: Makwala ran an African record and world leading time (43.72) in La Chaux-de-Fonds earlier this year, and van Niekerk broke the 20-second barrier (19.94) in the 200m in Lucerne only a few days later.

800m men: Rudisha, Aman, Kszczot, Makhloufi

With Olympic champion and world record holder David Rudisha, 2013 world champion Mohammed Aman (ETH), and European champion Adam Kszczot (POL) on the entry list, the 800m have all the makings for an extraordinary highlight. And as 1500m Olympic gold winner Toufik Makhloufi (ALG) has also confirmed his appearance, two reigning Olympic champions will clash in the race. Swiss champion Hugo Santacruz has secured a spot in the prestigious event, as well.

1500m men: Souleiman, Kiplagat, and Kiprop are the three contenders for this year’s Diamond Trophy

As the overall scores of three athletes leading the Diamond Race are a mere three points apart, the series’ last race of the season will be an exciting final spurt for the Diamond Trophy. Ayanleh Souleiman (DJI) leads the Diamond Race with 11 points, ahead of Silas Kiplagat (KEN/10 points), and Asbel Kiprop (KEN/9 points). As current world leader, two-time world champion (2011/2013), and former Olympic champion (2008), Kiprop is considered the main favourite – both for the Beijing and the IAAF Diamond League finals.