British pole vault athlete Molly Caudery has been forced to end her 2026 season prematurely after undergoing emergency spinal surgery. The 26-year-old world indoor champion underwent the procedure following a sudden flare-up last week, which necessitated immediate medical intervention.

Caudery’s unexpected surgery means she will miss both the upcoming Commonwealth Games in Glasgow and the European Championships scheduled to take place in Birmingham this summer. The athlete expressed her disappointment on social media, sharing a photo from her hospital bed and describing her situation as “absolutely heartbroken” over the loss of another season to injuries.

This setback follows previous challenges in Caudery’s career, highlighting the physical toll high-level competition can exact on elite athletes. Her absence will be felt across the British athletics team, where she has been a prominent figure in the pole vault discipline.

Medical details beyond the description of a “flare-up” have not been disclosed, and Caudery’s recovery timeline remains uncertain. As she begins rehabilitation, the focus will be on her long-term health and the possibility of returning to competition in future years.

The Commonwealth Games and European Championships organizers are adjusting to the loss of a leading contender, while British athletics looks ahead to rebuilding its lineup in her absence.