Longford’s Cian McPhillips wins World Athletics Championships 800m heat with classy run

Cian McPhillips produced a fantastic performance to take the victory in his heat of the 800 metres at the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo on Tuesday.

Going into the race, McPhillips was ranked sixth fastest of the nine men drawn in heat 4 based on season’s best times.

The competition was going to be intense with there being automatic qualifier places for only the first three finishers who would advance to Thursday’s semi-final.

‘That went very well…it’s great to get a win, a real confidence boost’ – Cian McPhillips on an impressive performance in his 800m heat #RTESport
Coverage of the World Athletics Championships continues on @RTE2 and @RTEplayer
https://t.co/b2OI4OoWVJ pic.twitter.com/066CMhNCb3

— RTÉ Sport (@RTEsport) September 16, 2025

The pace in the opening lap was quick and covered in 52 seconds with McPhillips well positioned behind the leaders. With 200m remaining, he made a move into lane two before making a strong run around the final bend and powering down the home straight clear of a world-class field.

He crossed the finish line first in 1:44.91 with the 2024 World Indoor Champion Bryce Hoppel of the USA in second place.

Next up for Cian will be the semi-finals on Thursday which are scheduled to begin from 1.45pm (Irish time).

️ “I’m delighted with that…Thankfully I could execute and get the job done.”

Hear from a thrilled Cian McPhillips after he advanced to the semi-finals of the Men’s 800m at his debut World Athletics Championships in Tokyo, winning his heat #IrishAthletics… pic.twitter.com/n2XMIh3S8F

— Athletics Ireland (@irishathletics) September 16, 2025

Donegal’s Mark English will also line up in the semi-finals having advanced from his heat of the 800m.

Also read: When and how to watch the Irish in action at the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo