The Belgian Tornados take gold!
The relay team composed of Julien Watrin, Alexander Doom and Dylan and Kevin Borlée have become world champions of the 4x400m relay in Belgrade. Jonathan Saccor, lined up by Jacques Borlée in place of Dylan in the final, also contributed to this feat.
The team took a silver medal in 2010 in Doha and was a bronze medallist in 2018 in Birmingham. This time, however, it was gold and its first world title that awaited the Belgian relay team at the finish. Over the course of the three competitions, Kevin Borlée became the most decorated Belgian athlete at the World Indoor Championships, after winning three of the nine medals picked up by Belgium. It was the Tornados' captain who sealed the outcome of the competition in the final relay in Belgrade. Competing against the Spaniard, Bernat Erta, he completed his two laps in 46.06 seconds, compared to the time of 46.93 seconds recorded by his opponent.
Belgium came to Belgrade with 22 athletes, making it the largest delegation ever. As a proof of the quality of this delegation, Belgium climbed up to third place on the medals table.
With this title, the Belgian Tornados have won their 14th medal, and their record of achievements, already admired and envied all over the world, has now become even greater. They won gold this time, but the team is keeping its head well and truly on its shoulders. According to Kevin Borlée, every medal is a success, no matter what colour it is.
Despite the withdrawal of Jonathan Borlée, the relay team are now world champions and this triumph should certainly boost the Belgian team as it competes in the summer championships! For the moment, though, it's time to celebrate.