The race to represent the United States of America in the men’s 800 meters at the 2025 World Championships is more competitive than ever.
The 2025 USATF National Championships will be held in Eugene, Oregon, at the University of Oregon’s Hayward Field. This highly anticipated meet, scheduled for July 30 to August 3, will serve as the official trials to select Team USA for the World Championships in Tokyo, Japan.
With only three spots available, Chase Athletics US takes a closer look at six standout athletes who have shown the potential to earn a place on the team.
Josh Hoey
Josh Hoey has been the revelation of 2025. The former high school phenom won gold at the World Indoor Championships in Nanjing and broke the American indoor 800m record twice. His 1:42.43 performance in Stockholm is currently the fastest by an American this year, putting him firmly in the driver’s seat heading into trials.
Bryce Hoppel
A consistent performer in recent years, Bryce Hoppel remains one of the most dependable names in U.S. middle-distance running. He clocked 1:43.26 in Doha, currently the second-fastest American time in 2025. He brings valuable experience from past global championships. Hoppel is always a contender.
Jonah Koech
Kenyan-born Jonah Koech, who represented the U.S. at the 2022 World Championships in Eugene, has put himself back in the conversation. His personal best of 1:43.32 at the Kip Keino Classic in Nairobi is among the top American marks this season. Koech’s raw speed and strength make him a serious contender for a Tokyo spot.
Brandon Miller
Still only 22, Brandon Miller has quietly built a solid campaign this year. He ran 1:43.52 in Rabat and finished second behind Hoey at the U.S. Indoor Championships. His progress and growing maturity position him well to challenge for a top-three finish in Eugene.
Donavan Brazier
The 2019 world champion is on the comeback trail after battling injuries in recent seasons. Brazier showed flashes of his old brilliance with a 1:43.81 win in Portland. It was followed by another strong outing in Nashville. If he continues trending upward, his experience could carry him back to the world stage.
Hobbs Kessler
Hobbs Kessler has drawn attention with impressive performances in the mile and 1500m this season. While he’s not primarily an 800m runner, his 1:45.60 season best still places him in the mix. He could be a surprise factor.
Either way, the men’s 800m final in Eugene promises to be one of the must-watch events on the U.S. athletics calendar this year.
