Noah Lyles Reveals Surprising Reason for Skipping 2026 World Indoor Championships

Noah Lyles has revealed the main reason he will skip the World Indoor Championships in Kujawy Pomorze, Poland, scheduled for March 20 to 22, 2026.

The reigning Olympic 100m champion noted that he will still contest a select number of indoor races as part of his preparation for the outdoor season.

Noah Lyles has rarely competed indoors in recent years, having missed the 2025 World Indoor Championships, though he did race at the 2024 edition, where he claimed a silver medal in the 60m.

The four-time world 200m champion said he intended to line up in the 60 metres at the US National Championships.

Noah Lyles explained that he does not share the view that indoor competition is insignificant for established athletes, emphasising that it plays an important role in the sport.

He added that indoor track offers an unmatched atmosphere, with energy concentrated in a single space that elevates both performance and fan engagement.

“I will be at the US National Championships for the 60 meters. In the 60m. 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,” he added.

Noah Lyles added that he would not be able to take part in the World Indoor Championships because the timing was too close to his wedding.

He added that the situation has prompted him to reflect on how to balance stepping back from competition with other 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.

Noah Lyles pointed out that he expects to compete frequently over the course of the year, even though his schedule will ease slightly after the indoor season.

Noah Lyles explained that once the Diamond League circuit gathers momentum, he will be fully involved and racing consistently.

He added that fans should anticipate seeing plenty of him on the track and made it clear he was ready to take on anyone willing to line up against him.

“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 added.

“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.”