Eight-time world champion – Noah Lyles has said that he is expecting to cross the finish line in 9.85 seconds at the 2026 Golden Gala Pietro Mennea in Rome, Italy on Thursday.
Speaking to the press on Wednesday at the Stadio Olimpico, Lyles who is the third fastest of all-time in the history of the men’s 200m said though he hasn’t been in Rome since 2019, he’s going to have fun once he jumps onto the tracks tomorrow while pledging to finish in 9.85 seconds:
“There’s no pressure, I can just run where I want run. It’s not a situation of having to peak at a certain time. It’s just as soon we’re ready to run fast, let’s find a meet and let’s run.
“I’ve never come to a track meet and not gone all in. If I show up, I’m ready to run.
“My coach said I’m in 9.85 shape so I can expect 9.85 or better for tomorrow.”
“Me and Jordan Anthony have been having some immaculate training sessions, just to see where we are.
“I’m debating if this is the best shape I’ve been in my life or if I’m at where I was during the Olympic season but I’m seeing some really good things, having a good training partner definitely helps.”
The lineup for tomorrow’s men’s 100m includes Noah Lyles, Jordan Anthony, Akani Simbine, Ferdinand Omanyala, Emmanuel Eseme, Ackeem Blake, Jeremiah Azu, and Letsile Tebogo.
