Hyrox to review protocols after athlete continues race despite accident

World champion Joanna Wietrzyk continued competing in a Hyrox elite event in Beijing on Saturday after experiencing fecal incontinence, finishing in 1 hour 1 minute 23 seconds. The incident, captured in video that spread online, prompted criticism of the race organizers for not withdrawing the athlete.

Hyrox posted a statement on Instagram acknowledging that its biocontaminant and medical protocols were unclear in the situation and that the organization would review its procedures. > "As our sport continues to evolve we are encountering new and increasingly complex situations that challenge us and where additional clarity is needed," the statement read.

The federation also warned against online threats toward Wietrzyk, saying anyone identified engaging in such behavior would be banned from future events.

Wietrzyk later posted a selfie from a hospital bed, thanking supporters and indicating she would return to competition, though the post was subsequently deleted. A fellow competitor, Joe Ho, expressed concern for participants’ safety and suggested refunds or compensation for those affected.

The episode highlights the physical challenges athletes can face in high-intensity endurance events, a phenomenon previously reported in other sports such as marathon running and race walking.