Nottingham sprint star Sophie Hahn overcomes challenging circumstances at New Delhi World Championships

The Nottingham sprint star, 28, finished a close third in her T38 100m heat in New Delhi to keep her hopes of an eighth global gold medal alive

Will Jennings in New Delhi

09:02, 28 Sep 2025

New Delhi 2025 World Para Athletics Championships at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium Delhi, India. (Photo by Marcus Hartmann)(Image: Marcus Hartmann – Photography)

Sophie Hahn battled through nerves and sweltering sub-continental conditions to book her place in the World Para Athletics Championships final.

The Nottingham sprint star, 28, finished a close third in her T38 100m heat in New Delhi to keep her hopes of an eighth global gold medal alive.

Hahn, a two-time Paralympic champion, has endured a tough 12 months since Paris – where she finished a disappointing sixth – and has recently changed coaches after struggling with her confidence.

That, coupled with the mercury rising to as high as 35 degrees here in India, made life difficult on the start line but Hahn was relieved to get through as she bids to bounce back to her best.

READ MORE: Sophie Hahn going ‘back to basics’ in pursuit of global gold in New DelhiREAD MORE: Thomas Young reveals secret needed for success at World Para Athletics Championships in New Delhi

“The time was slow – but I was quite nervous before the race,” said Hahn, who crossed the line in 12.82s.

“I thought if I can just get to the final, that will get the nerves out of the way.

“I was probably the most nervous I’ve been for a long time today.

“I feel like after Paris my confidence struggled – it has slightly grown but it’s still not where I want it to be at the moment.

“India is a beautiful country – it’s chaotic and I have to say, this is the hottest I think I have ever competed in.

“Dubai for our training camp was good but this is another level.”

Hahn is one of over 30 British athletes out in the Indian capital, with the team now sponsored by official finance partner Novuna.

The East Midlands star got off to a strong start at the stunning Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium but was reeled in by Colombian Karen Palomeque – the reigning Paris Paralympic champion – and Hungarian Luca Ekler, who finished first and second.

But with the top three in each heat qualifying – plus two fastest losers – Hahn’s place in Monday’s final was secure.

She added: “You’ve got to play it safe in the heats – I want to reserve as much energy as possible for the final, so hopefully I can deliver a good race.

“I feel like the times are quick, so if I’m going to medal I will need to do something, so I just need to work out what it is and deliver it.”

PLEASE LEAVE IN FINAL PAR – Novuna is the Official Finance Partner of British Athletics and proud sponsor of the GB & NI Athletics Team. From everyday goals to world-class dreams, Novuna helps millions across the UK – backing British businesses, supporting individuals’ plans, and supporting British Athletics on the global stage. Find out more at www.novuna.co.uk

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