Darragh McElhinney has been ruled out of this week's European Indoor Championships due to a positive Covid-19 test.
The Cork distance runner had been in fine form leading up to the event but a 'weak positive' Covid test result stops him competing in Poland this week.
He tweeted: "Unfortunately I've had to withdraw from the European Championships after getting a 'weak positive’ COVID test.
"Despite several negative tests either side of this one, protocol is protocol so I will have to sit this one out. Best of luck to all the Irish athletes competing."
Athletics Ireland said in a statement: "For medical reasons, Darragh McElhinney has withdrawn from the Irish team set to compete at the European Indoor Championships in Torun.
"Darragh is disappointed not be lining up in Poland on the back of his fantastic early season form, but he is now focusing his attention on preparing for the upcoming outdoor season."
800m record-breakers Siofra Cleirigh Buttner and Nadia Power will be part of a strong Irish contingent targeting success at the Championships.
