Volunteer Drive Launched for Birmingham 2026 European Athletics Championships
With just six months remaining until the European Athletics Championships, organisers of Birmingham 2026 have officially opened applications for volunteers. The event, scheduled from 10 to 16 August 2026 at Alexander Stadium, marks the first UK staging of these championships, and the public is being called upon to 'Be a Champion' by supporting the historic occasion.
Inspiring Launch with Olympic Stars
The 'Be a Champion' volunteer campaign was unveiled today at Birmingham's School Games event, held on the indoor track at the Utilita Arena. Special guests included Olympic and World Championship medallists Lina and Laviai Nielsen, who attended to announce that applications are now open. Both athletes are set to compete at Birmingham 2026 this August, and they shared their personal journeys that began with volunteering.
Lina Nielsen, a Team GB athlete and Olympic medallist, reflected on her start: "We got into athletics because the London 2012 Olympics came to our borough, and we got the chance to volunteer. We were so lucky to be on the track as kit carriers and to feel the energy and see the athletes up close and personal, we decided then and there we wanted to pursue track and field."
Laviai Nielsen, also a Team GB athlete and Olympic medallist, added: "Volunteering was an emotional experience, feeling the impact of the games, we felt so proud in our uniforms and walking down our usual high street we were getting thanked by the public for volunteering. We definitely encourage anyone considering volunteering to apply and get involved for a once in a lifetime chance to gain valuable experience and have a lot of fun too!"
Volunteer Roles and Requirements
Organisers are seeking volunteers across a wide range of areas to ensure the smooth operation of the championships. The required roles include:
- Accessibility
- Accreditation & Uniform
- Broadcast & Event Presentation
- Clean Athletics
- Hospitality
- Medal Ceremonies
- Media Operations
- Spectator Services
- Sport & Competition
- Team Services
- Ticketing
- Transport
- Workforce
Volunteers must have the Right to Work in the UK, possess a positive attitude, demonstrate strong team spirit, and be available from 8 to 17 August 2026. The deadline to apply is Tuesday, 10 March 2026, with applications to be submitted online.
Additional Opportunities and Community Impact
Further volunteer opportunities will be announced soon. Specifically, those aged 14–17 will be able to apply to become Kit Carriers through a separate process launching later in the year. Additionally, groups can volunteer together for the race walks and marathon events, with details to be released in the coming months.
Cherry Alexander, Championship Director for Birmingham 2026, expressed enthusiasm: "We are delighted to launch our volunteering campaign today with elite athletes Lina and Laviai Nielsen, and a number of volunteers who will be working with us this summer whose experience is the perfect inspiration for people of all ages to apply, and to create their own memories this summer. While Alexander Stadium in Perry Barr is the host venue, numerous locations across the city and region will also host volunteer roles to support the event."
Esther Britten, Head of Events and External Affairs at UK Sport, highlighted the broader benefits: "Major sporting events are brilliant catalysts for bringing people together, with volunteers at the heart of this by supporting the event to run smoothly to showcase many extraordinary moments. Birmingham 2026 is a chance for people to build confidence, make new connections, learn new skills and help create something the whole community can be proud of. We’d really encourage anyone interested to find out more and apply."
Councillor Sharon Thompson, Deputy Leader of Birmingham City Council, emphasised the local impact: "Volunteers bring Birmingham’s biggest moments to life, and the experience gives just as much back. Getting involved means learning new skills, meeting new people, creating friendships, growing in confidence and being part of something truly special. It’s a chance to feel the buzz of a major sporting event as we host the first ever UK edition of the European Athletic Championships this summer while providing the warm Brummie welcome our city is famous for."
How to Get Involved
Interested individuals are encouraged to apply online before the 10 March 2026 deadline. For more information, including volunteer signup and FAQs, visit the official Birmingham 2026 website. Tickets and event details are also available for those wishing to attend the championships.
