Australian HYROX athlete Joanna Wietrzyk has issued a public apology for continuing to compete after suffering bowel incontinence during the HYROX Beijing event in September. Wietrzyk, who won the women's pro category in 1:01:23, announced her return to competition in the 2026 Hamburg HYROX ELITE 15 scheduled for this week. She forfeited her Beijing result following widespread backlash over her decision to remain in the race despite visible soiling.
Wietrzyk’s apology and return to competition
In an Instagram video posted from Hamburg, Wietrzyk stated: “I've had some time to reflect over the past six to eight weeks of everything that happened in Beijing. Firstly, I just want to say that I'm truly, truly so sorry to everyone that I affected, whether they were spectators or participants out on that race floor, for my decision to choose to continue to race.” She described the aftermath as “very hard” and “very confronting,” while expressing gratitude for the support she received from fans and her team.
Wietrzyk confirmed she would compete in the Elite 15 series in Hamburg, an event featuring top professional competitors. “I'm here in Hamburg now, so I'm racing a couple days' time in the Elite 15,” she said. “I'm super excited to go back doing what I love.”
Background on the Beijing incident
During the HYROX Beijing event, Wietrzyk continued racing after suffering bowel incontinence while using shared equipment. Footage and images circulated online showed fecal matter visible on her legs as she completed the course. The incident sparked international debate over race officials’ decision to allow her to continue competing. Wietrzyk ultimately forfeited the points earned at the event in response to the backlash.
Athlete’s career and sponsorship
Wietrzyk is the first Australian woman to qualify for the Elite 15 Series. Her sponsorship with Puma was prominently featured in her apology video, where she wore a cream puffer jacket, matching Puma hoodie, and held a miniature white Puma handbag. The brand’s logo was clearly visible throughout the statement.
The athlete’s return to competition follows a period of reflection and public apology, as she prepares to compete in one of HYROX’s premier events.