Donostia-San Sebastián, Spain – In a move resonating with a decades-old family decision, 22-year-old Spanish athlete Marko Usabiaga has withdrawn from contention for the upcoming European Athletics Championships, choosing not to represent Spain in the competition. The obstacle course racing (OCR) specialist announced his decision in an interview with Euskadi Irratia, stating firmly, “I will not wear the Spanish jersey or compete. I have resigned my place in the European Championship. I will not go out with the Spanish jersey. It is clear to me, that is what my family has taught me. My father did the same in athletics.”
Usabiaga’s decision, announced on March 14, 2026, has sparked debate beyond the sporting world, raising questions about national representation and personal conviction. The European Championships are scheduled to take place in Irún, in the Basque Country, from May 28-31, making the decision particularly poignant given the event’s location.
The athlete’s choice echoes a similar stance taken by his father years ago, a precedent Usabiaga explicitly referenced. While the specific details of his father’s decision remain largely private, the principle of refusing to compete under the Spanish flag has been passed down through generations. This familial connection underscores the deeply personal nature of Usabiaga’s decision, moving it beyond a simple sporting preference.
Usabiaga has quickly become a prominent figure in the burgeoning sport of obstacle course racing. His passion for the discipline was ignited at the age of 13, witnessing his father compete in Gladiators Day, where Lluis Barbe ultimately emerged victorious. Barbe would later become Usabiaga’s coach and mentor, shaping his athletic development.
“Since I was 3 years old, my father took me to the athletics track to train with him. He instilled in me the values of sport and I got hooked,” Usabiaga explained, highlighting the foundational role his father played in his athletic journey. He initially explored football, but ultimately found his calling in the individual challenge of obstacle course racing.
The path to elite competition wasn’t without its hurdles. Following the pandemic, Usabiaga pursued a personal trainer qualification and relocated to Catalonia to learn from Barbe. This period involved financial hardship, requiring him to work at a gas station to support himself while balancing training and coursework. “I had to work many nights, I wasn’t given vacations… and all of that I had to combine with training and doing the internships. That year I barely competed because I didn’t rest well,” he recalled. Barbe eventually offered him a position at his gym, providing a crucial opportunity to focus on his training.
Usabiaga’s accomplishments include a European Championship title in the 18-19 age group in the Dolomites (Trentino, Italy), a bronze medal at the European Championships in Hungary (short course, 3km + 25 obstacles), and a Spanish Championship title in 2023. He has similarly achieved success in prominent OCR events such as the Valhalla Race Castellón, Poseidón Race Galicia, and Medieval Extreme Race in Peñíscola. Currently, he trains at the Centro de Alto Rendimiento Moute i Superat in Canejan, balancing his elite training regimen with his employment.
The decision to forgo the European Championships is undoubtedly a significant one for Usabiaga, potentially impacting his competitive trajectory. Although, it’s a decision rooted in deeply held family values and a personal conviction that transcends the realm of sport. It remains to be seen how this choice will shape his future career, but it’s clear that Usabiaga is prioritizing principles over participation.
Usabiaga will continue to train and compete, focusing on events where he can represent his values alongside his athletic prowess. His next scheduled competition has not yet been announced, but fans can follow updates through official channels and news outlets covering the OCR scene.
This story is developing. Archysport will continue to provide updates as they become available.
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