Australian high jump superstar Nicola Olyslagers is set to lead a star-studded team of 11 athletes at the 2026 World Athletics Indoor Championships in Kujawy Pomorze, Poland, from March 20-22. Back-to-back indoor world champion Olyslagers will attempt the rare feat of winning a third consecutive title, putting her on the radar of the global athletics community as one of the sport’s brightest stars.
Having claimed gold at the 2024 Glasgow and 2025 Nanjing championships, Nicola Olyslagers also added the outdoor world title in Tokyo to her growing collection last year. Her record-breaking 2.04m leap at the Diamond League final in Zurich sent a clear message: she is in prime form and ready to dominate in 2026.
“Last year was good as far as the awards and trophy component go, but there is still much more to go for,” Nicola Olyslagers said. “I’ve been trying to think like that, so I can be on fire for this season. You look back on the success of last year, then 2026 ticked over and it was like, put those trophies in the cupboard, get back to training and look ahead.”
Olyslagers won’t be alone in making waves for Australia. Olympic bronze medallist and 2022 world champion Eleanor Patterson will provide fierce competition in the women’s high jump, giving Australia two of the world’s top three athletes in the event. With both athletes in peak form, the high jump is shaping up as one of the most exciting competitions at the championships.
In addition to high jump, Australia’s team boasts elite talent across multiple disciplines. Pole vaulter Kurtis Marschall, fresh off clearing the elusive six-metre barrier for the first time in his career, will face the toughest competition the event has ever seen, with six athletes already surpassing six metres in 2026. Marschall remains confident that he can add a third global medal to his resume if he performs at his best.
Middle-distance events are also a highlight for the Aussies, led by Olympic silver medallist Jessica Hull. Hull will compete in both the 1500m and 3000m alongside Peter Bol, offering fans a strong chance of podium finishes. Rising stars Hayley Kitching and Bob Abdelrahim will make their debuts, while seasoned athletes like Linden Hall and Adam Spencer provide depth to the squad.
Australia’s long jump prospects are equally impressive. Liam Adcock, who narrowly missed out on gold at the 2025 championships in Nanjing, will return in peak form following a qualifying leap of 8.23m (+0.5) in his first competition this year. With a mix of experience and new talent, the Australian team is ready to challenge the world across multiple disciplines.
The squad will be supported by Team Leader Scott Goodman, coach Justin Rinaldi, and physiotherapist Helen van Kempen, ensuring athletes have top-tier preparation and recovery. Australian viewers can catch all the live action free on 9Go! and 9NOW, giving fans front-row access to what promises to be one of the most thrilling championships in years.
With Nicola Olyslagers leading a balanced and high-performing team, Australia is aiming to make a significant mark at the 2026 World Athletics Indoor Championships. Fans around the world will be watching closely as Olyslagers and her teammates chase medals and make history in Poland.
Australian Team for the 2026 World Athletics Indoor Championships
Women’s 800m – Hayley Kitching (NSW, Ryan Foster)
Women’s 1500m – Jessica Hull (NSW, Simon Hull)
Women’s 3000m – Linden Hall (VIC, Ned Brophy-Williams), Hull
Women’s 60m Hurdles – Michelle Jenneke (NSW, Bronwyn Thompson)
Women’s High Jump – Nicola Olyslagers (NSW, Matt Horsnell), Eleanor Patterson (VIC, Fayaaz Caan)
Men’s 800m – Bob Abdelrahim (VIC, Justin Rinaldi), Peter Bol (WA, Justin Rinaldi)
Men’s 1500m – Adam Spencer (VIC, Tomasz Lewandowski)
Men’s Long Jump – Liam Adcock (QLD, self-coached)
Men’s Pole Vault – Kurtis Marschall (WA, Declan Carruthers)
