European athletics medal ceremonies postponed and transport chaos as police make arrest

West Midlands Police said the disruption happened after a man was “found in an area of Alexander Stadium with the wrong accreditation”.

A spokesperson confirmed that a man in his 30s was arrested on suspicion of fraud and remained in custody for questioning.

The crowd at the Alexander Stadium appeared to be near its 23,000 capacity to watch Saturday’s evening session, which concluded with Great Britain winning a pair of gold medals in the men’s and women’s 4x100m relays.

At one point during the session, there was an announcement that the six medal ceremonies, scheduled to take place after the final event between 10pm and 11pm, were cancelled.

The Press Association understands this decision was taken in relation to the police incident.

Outside, there was a visibly heavy police presence and huge static queues of people waiting for shuttle buses.

Alex Ridout wrote on X: “Crazy queues for the shuttle bus after tonight’s European Athletics Championships session.

“Definitely seems like something has gone on that has potentially caused blockages, with blue flashing lights seen on the main road outside Alexander Stadium.”

Another user, Paul, posted shortly after midnight: “We are one of the last out of the pens.

“Been queuing since 10.15 with 3 kids who all needed the toilet. In the stadium has been good but the planning on getting out has been abysmal. There was little communication from anyone about the issue!”

Susie Barnacle wrote on X that she had been “waiting for nearly two hours to leave” and described “armed police at the buses”, adding: “We were told precisely nothing!”

Several people on social media said they were told there had been a “security incident”.

Michele wrote on X: “What’s happening at the Alexander Stadium? Police saying there’s a security incident and hundreds of people waiting for buses.”

A West Midlands Police spokeperson said: “A man was arrested following concerns of suspicious activity at the European Athletics Championship last night.

“At around 8.15pm, concerns were raised after a man was found in an area of Alexander Stadium with the wrong accreditation.

“As a precaution, security measures were put in place and transport for the championship staff and athletes were suspended. This then led to delays to transport from the stadium for the wider public.

“A man in his 30s was arrested on suspicion of fraud and remains in custody for questioning.

“We understand the concern this may have caused and can confirm there was no immediate risk to the public.

“As always, our priority is the safety of the public and we want to thank everyone for the patience.”

A statement from Birmingham 2026 said: “Birmingham 2026 can confirm that transport operations have returned to normal following a police incident on Saturday evening.

“Championship transport was suspended until the necessary security measures had been carried out whilst West Midlands Police arrested a man in his thirties on suspicion of fraud.

“The safety and wellbeing of our spectators, athletes, workforce and the wider Championships’ family will always be our first priority.

“We recognise that the delays presented challenges for those affected and would like to thank everyone for their patience, understanding and cooperation throughout the evening.

“Further information will be issued on Sunday relating to the evening’s postponed medal ceremonies.”