'The next chapter' - World 400mH champion Femke Bol announces she's switching to the 800m ahead of LA 2028 Olympics

With less than three years to the LA 2028 Olympics, two-time world champion Femke Bol has announced she's dropping her trademark event, the 400mH, to test her talent in the 800m.

The Dutch hurdling queen made the surprise announcement on her Instagram page, accompanied by a video showcasing her best winning moments over the years and explaining why she's set for a new chapter.

"I'm moving to the 800m. Fewer hurdles on the track, or well, different kinds of hurdles. I've learned so much from hurdling, and I really loved it. It will always have a special place in my heart."

Bol retained her 400mH world title at the Tokyo 2025 Championships, clocking a brilliant 51.54 seconds, to remain unbeaten in the event this season.

Her exceptional resume in the event sees her as one of the most accomplished 400m hurdlers in history, highlighted by: Two-time World Champion (2023, 2025), Two-time European Champion (2022, 2024), Two-time Olympic bronze medalist (2021, 2024), and European Record holder at 50.95s (No.2 on all-time list).

Having accomplished all she had planned to in her young career, the 25-year-old added she feels it's time for a change.

"But I'm ready for the next challenge, a new stimulus, a completely different kind of race. It's different from what I'm used to in the 400mH, and I'm really excited to explore that."

Her coach also echoed her words on winning everything in the women's 400mH in Europe and the need to try a new challenge.

"Yes, with 25 years of age, she won every single medal you can win. So, an amazing athlete who did change the game, at least in Europe, in the 400m and 400mH. A very exciting challenge for both of us," he said.

With Bol now switching to the 800m, her goal will not just be on marking her presence among the talented field of runners in the event, but breaking the Dutch national record of 1:55.54 set by Ellen van Langen when she won Olympic gold in 1992.