Great Manchester Run: Mo Farah pulls out of Manchester 10K race after London issue

Sir Mo Farah has withdrawn from the Great Manchester Run after finishing second at the Vitality London 10K behind club runner Ellis Cross.

The Olympian said he was not back to full fitness and this had prompted the decision to pull out of the Manchester 10K on 22 May.

Sir Mo said: “I had a below par run at the London 10k last weekend and feel that I need another month of training to get back to a competitive level.

“I don’t like to cancel races but my fitness is not yet back to where I want it to be.”

Race organisers said there was still a strong field of athletes competing in the annual 10K, which sees a half-marathon take place on the same day.

Chief executive of the Great Run Company, Paul Foster said, “Of course it’s disappointing not to have Sir Mo on the start line and we’re sure he will be missed by those turning out to support and those watching from home, but we understand his decision.

“We’re expecting a really exciting women’s race, with an on-form Eilish McColgan taking on Kenyan powerhouses Hellen Obiri and Ruth Chepngetich.”

“We’re still looking forward to a competitive event in the men’s elite race, three-time Oceanic record holder and four-time Diamond League winner, Australian Stewart McSweyn, will be lining up against his countryman, Jack Rayner, the Australian National 10,000m record holder.

“Jake & Zane Robertson, brothers from New Zealand and holders of the countries two fastest 10,000m times will also compete.”

Is the Greater Manchester Run 2022 on TV?

Yes, the race will be televised live on the BBC like last year. And ManchesterWorld will be following the action on the day - with a photo gallery of runners on our site after the event.

The event is open to runners of all ages and abilities. Find out how to enter with our race guide here.