PARIS: Swimming star Leon Marchand has cut back on the events he will compete in at the European championships starting on Monday because of a lingering thigh injury.

The French federation confirmed on Saturday that Marchand will not compete in the 200m and 400m individual medley events in Paris.

The Frenchman had already ruled out the 200m breaststroke but remains entered in the 200m butterfly and 400m freestyle that place less strain on the adductor muscles.

He may also participate in one or two relays with the French team.

“The injury is healing well, and recovery is largely complete. However, since competing in the 200m and 400m individual medley carries a non-negligible risk of recurrence, and to safeguard the remainder of the competition, the decision was made not to enter these races,” explained team doctor Sebastien Le Garrec.

The four-time Olympic champion injured his adductor during the 200m breaststroke heats at the French championships in June, subsequently withdrawing from the rest of the competition.

He suffered a setback during a training session in Marseille three weeks later.

Earlier this month, he had confirmed his participation in the European championships, though he was doubtful regarding the 400m individual medley.

Ultimately, he decided to withdraw from the shorter distance as well as a precautionary measure.

The withdrawal from his two signature events is a major setback for the 24-year-old, who had made these championships the primary goal of his season.

He had also stated he wanted to break his own world record in the 400m individual medley this season.

Published in Dawn, August 9th, 2026