Memorial Van Damme celebrates 50th anniversary in Brussels

The 50th edition of the Memorial Van Damme athletics meeting in Brussels is expected to draw 30,000 spectators on both Friday and Saturday. As the Diamond League season finale, the event features high-profile international athletes, including Mondo Duplantis in the pole vault.

To mark the anniversary, a bronze statue of the late Ivo Van Damme, created by Jan Desmarets, was unveiled. The statue will be positioned at the main entrance of the King Baudouin Stadium. The event also serves as a platform to honor former athletes and showcase Belgian talent.