Christophe Lemaitre is set to compete only in the 200 metres at the London Olympics, his coach has confirmed.
The French sprinter will not run in the 100m at the Games
French sprinter Christophe Lemaitre is set to compete only in the 200 metres at the London Olympic Games, his coach has confirmed.
The 22-year-old will not run in the 100m, at which he is the reigning double European champion, in a bid to maximise his medal chances over the longer distance.
His coach Pierre Carraz told
L'Equipe they have "put a definitive cross" against the 100m.
He said: "In the results over 100m, Christophe is only ranked 10th among those who have entered.
"Over 200m, we can hope for a medal."
Rethink
Carraz did hint, though, that any significant withdrawals from the 100m might prompt a rethink.
Lemaitre, the first white man to break the 10-second barrier, has only run 10.04secs for the 100m so far this year.
He is the world number four over 200m, though, having clocked 19.91s to win the Diamond League meeting at Crystal Palace 12 days ago.
Lemaitre also won 200m bronze at last year's World Championships in Daegu.
