Yesterday (Saturday, May 2, 2026) marked exactly 100 days to go until the start of the competition, and organizers officially unveiled ‘Bab the Bull’ as the mascot for the Birmingham 2026 European Athletics Championships, which come to the UK for the first time from 10-16 August.
To mark the occasion, Bab the Bull was unveiled to cheers when making a last-minute appearance in the Mascot Dash at the Junior and Mini Great Birmingham Run at Alexander Stadium - Bab’s home ground. Bab the mascot represents determination, strength, and tenacity – qualities that served Bab well in the mascot dash, placing first.
These traits will be on full display as some of the world’s best athletes compete this summer at Birmingham 2026, with Bab cheering them on. Jim Gilbert, Head of Creative at Birmingham 2026, said: “Birmingham’s culture, energy, creativity, and sporting heritage provide a solid foundation to build on, and we had the creative licence to develop something bold and memorable – something that is rooted locally yet resonates globally.
“The bull is synonymous with Birmingham and takes centre stage in the vibrant Birmingham 2026 logo. A powerful symbol of the city, the bull has been woven into Birmingham’s identity since the 16th century. Bab the Bull draws on this rich history, but with a modern attitude and energy.”
Iwan Thomas, European, Commonwealth and World Championships medallist, knows what hosting the European Athletics Championships means for Birmingham and the UK. He said: “Throughout my career, I’ve had to face some big rivals.
“No one, however, has really challenged me in quite the way pesky mascots have. Don’t let the friendly face fool you – Bab’s got a mischievous streak.
“I’m looking forward to going toe to toe with Bab this summer, and if he thinks I’m going to put up with any shenanigans, he’s got another think coming.” With the Junior and Mini Great Birmingham run taking place on the 100 days to go marker before Birmingham hosts the European Athletics Championships, organisers of the event worked closely with the Birmingham 2026 team.
As well as unveiling the official mascot at the youth events, Bab will join former GB athlete Iwan Thomas as an official starter for the Great Birmingham Run 10K and Half Marathon today, alongside the Lord Mayor of Birmingham, Councillor Zafar Iqbal MBE.
