Julian Weber Claims Gold with Record Throw at European Athletics Championships

Silver Sensation for Thumm as Weber Delivers Last-Minute Wonder Throw

Date: August 15, 2026 • 22:26

Julian Weber, the top favorite, seemed on the verge of defeat before unleashing a remarkable javelin throw that soared to unprecedented distances. With a new European Championship record, Weber secured the gold medal, while Nick Thumm captured a surprising silver.

During the fifth round, it appeared that Weber was out of contention as Thumm launched the javelin an impressive 83.76 meters, taking the lead from his teammate who had dominated the competition up to that point. Weber had opened the contest with a respectable throw of 83.71 meters, which seemed satisfactory but left room for improvement. However, he saved his best for last as the competition neared its conclusion.

Weber Surges Ahead with EM Record

After a series of underwhelming throws, the year’s best European javelin thrower demonstrated his champion spirit by delivering a stunning throw of 90.40 meters, reclaiming the lead and clinching gold with a new championship record. This incredible effort was a powerful display of skill in the final moments of the event. Thumm, suffering from cramps, was unable to respond and let the javelin fall to the ground without attempting another throw.

"In that last throw, there was so much frustration, even anger, all of it came out. I'm just happy it worked out so well. Everything hurt, and it was tough to find my rhythm during the run-up, but I managed to pull it off in the final attempt, and it was just amazing. I even have jaw pain from screaming; I’m the happiest person in the world right now," Weber expressed in an interview with Sportschau.

Thumm Overwhelmed After Silver

In a competition that had been rather sluggish overall, Patriks Gailums from Latvia managed to secure bronze with a throw of 82.97 meters, unable to surpass the two German competitors. While Weber’s performance was anticipated, Thumm’s achievement was particularly surprising as he was not regarded as a medal contender. "I’m speechless; I don’t know what just happened. I’m just so happy and can’t describe it," Thumm stated in his interview with Sportschau.

In the qualification round, the 21-year-old had already improved his personal best from 82.03 to 83.49 meters, and he raised the bar even higher in the final. "It wasn’t planned, but I knew I had to throw a personal best to make it to the finals. Now, I’ll take this experience with me, review everything, and try to challenge the big names," Thumm added afterward, achieving this in fantastic fashion.

Weber: A Specialist at the European Championships

Weber has consistently positioned himself as a favorite ahead of major events. His throw of 87.04 meters in Lucerne, nearly a month prior to the EM final, was the best in Europe this year and ranked him fourth globally. His status as a gold medal contender is underscored by his track record as a European Championship specialist, contrasting with his performances in other major competitions.

Last year, Weber faced disappointment in Tokyo, finishing fifth despite being the top gold candidate. Throughout his career, he has participated in four World Championships, with a record of two fourth places, one fifth, and one sixth, which is below his expectations. The same applies to his Olympic results, where he placed fourth and sixth. However, Weber's collection of European Championship medals continues to grow impressively.