Matt Hauser ruled out of triathlon’s Paris Test Event as COVID strikes again

Two years on from an Olympic Games played out against the backdrop of a global pandemic, COVID is still impacting elite sport with Matt Hauser the latest victim as he is ruled OUT of Friday’s Paris Test Event.

The Aussie star had been in terrific form in 2023 and was heading into the French capital with high hopes of a bold showing in this dress rehearsal for next summer’s showpiece. He won in Montreal, finished second in Yokohama and more recently came home fifth in Hamburg.

Matt Hauser on Paris KO

But on Thursday came the grim news that the 25-year-old would miss Friday’s big race as he posted a picture of a positive COVID test on his social media channels.

Revealing the news on Instagram, Hauser said: “Fought really hard to get to the startline in good shape but shit happens. Thanks for all the well wishes, was amazing to come here and somewhat experience what it’s going to be like next year.

“Gutted but health is the priority, next opportunity to qualify is 5 weeks.”

That event in five weeks is of course the WTCS Grand Final in Pontevedra between September 22 and September 24.