Mo Farah is in line for shock return to pinnacle of athletics at 39 years
Mo Farah could be in line for a shock return to the global stage after UK Athletics head coach Christian Malcolm disclosed he is ‘50-50’ to appear at this summer’s World Championships.
The 39-year-old’s career as an elite contender was seemingly over when he failed to qualify for the 10,000m at the Tokyo Olympics.
There have been persistent whispers that Farah might yet target the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham or the European Championships this summer in a bid for a golden farewell, but it has now emerged that a grander plan might be under consideration for the four-time Olympic champion.
Malcolm said: ‘Sir Mo is working hard and training. We will see how he goes in the summer. But he’s at that age now where you have to take it week-by-week, month-by-month, see where you are at in training.’
Asked directly about a Farah campaign to get to the worlds, Malcolm added: ‘It’s possible. We don’t know at the moment. It’s 50-50 if I am being honest with you. Hopefully we will know a little bit more over the next six weeks.
‘Does he still have a talent? Yes, he does. So let’s see if his body can handle it. Like I said, over the next six weeks Mo will know a little bit more about where he is at.’
Farah had indicated his reign at the top was up after twice falling short in time trials to qualify for last summer’s Olympics.
At the time, having suffered with a foot injury during those trials, he said: ‘I’ve had an amazing career. I’m lucky enough to be able to have so many medals. If I can’t compete with the best, why bother?’
Farah has already confirmed he will race for the first time since last July when he contests the Vitality London 10,000 on May 2.
