The Birmingham 2026 European Athletics Championships from 10 to 16 August 2026 reached the 100 days to go milestone on Saturday 2 May with the unveiling of official mascot Bab the Bull alongside youth races at Alexander Stadium.

The reveal took place during the Junior and Mini Great Birmingham Run, where Bab made a surprise appearance in the mascot dash at his home venue. The setting gave a first taste of the atmosphere expected this summer, with the stadium and surrounding routes already building towards a major athletics showcase.

Bab the Bull has been designed to reflect the strength, determination and identity of Birmingham, drawing on the city’s long standing connection to the bull symbol. The character adds a modern and energetic edge to a well established sporting city that continues to grow its reputation on the international stage.

With Birmingham preparing to host the European Athletics Championships for the first time, the event is shaping up as a key fixture in the UK sporting calendar. The involvement of the Great Birmingham Run weekend, including Bab joining as an official starter alongside Iwan Thomas, highlights the link between mass participation running and elite competition.

With 100 days now counting down, attention turns to August as the city gets ready to welcome some of the world’s best athletes. The early signs point to strong demand and a summer event that will put Birmingham firmly in the spotlight once again.

Find out more about Birmingham 2026 here.

Image courtesy Athletic Ventures for Birmingham 2026