Finnish Sprinter Lotta Harala Discusses Eating Disorder, Burnout and Retirement

Lotta Harala, a Finnish 100‑metre sprint champion, revealed that a long‑standing eating disorder was as debilitating as her physical injuries. In a Seura interview she described feeling dismissed by the sports world, saying "no one believed I was anything" until a few supporters helped her keep going.

Harala announced she will end her elite career after the 2026 season, a decision shaped by a painful breakup with her long‑time partner and coach Matias Myttysä. The split prompted her to explore her identity beyond sport. Despite planning to retire, she remains focused on the upcoming European Championships in Birmingham and still holds a place near the Finnish 100‑metre record, which was recently challenged by Saara Keskitalo.

Her story highlights the mental‑health pressures elite athletes face and underscores the importance of support systems for those dealing with eating disorders and burnout.