German track sensation Alica Schmidt has delivered a heartbreaking update to fans, revealing that she has been forced to pause her training after being diagnosed with COVID-19. The announcement came just weeks after the 26-year-old runner achieved a new personal milestone in the 800 meters, signaling her growing momentum in the 2025 outdoor season.
Taking to social media, Schmidt shared the difficult news with her followers, expressing both disappointment and hope as she battles the virus. “Unfortunately, I’ve tested positive for COVID,” she wrote. “I’ve had to take some time off from training to rest and recover. It’s tough to stop when you’re in the middle of making progress, but health always comes first.”
Schmidt’s setback comes at a particularly frustrating time, as the promising middle-distance runner had recently begun to find her stride. After making her outdoor season debut on June 1, 2025, at the Goldenes Oval, Schmidt clocked a time of 2:06.33 in the 800 meters. While she finished ninth in the race, she remained positive and determined to improve, making it clear that she had her sights set on bigger goals for the summer.
True to her word, Schmidt returned to the track with increased focus and determination. Her hard work paid off when she produced a series of improved performances in the following weeks. Her persistence culminated in a standout showing at the Spitzen Leichtathletik Luzern, where she recorded a personal best of 2:03.21 in the 800 meters—a significant leap from her season opener and a promising indicator of her potential at this new distance.
The German runner, who is also known for her widespread popularity off the track due to her social media presence and brand collaborations, has made a concerted effort this year to shift focus back to her athletic career. Transitioning from shorter sprints to the more demanding 800-meter event, Schmidt has embraced the challenge head-on, training rigorously and making visible improvements with each race. Her recent performances had not only reignited the excitement of her fans but also positioned her as an athlete to watch in the lead-up to major international competitions.
However, the sudden halt in training due to illness has understandably been a major blow—not just physically, but emotionally. With several key meets approaching, the timing is far from ideal. Still, Schmidt is choosing to focus on recovery, knowing that pushing through illness could jeopardize both her short-term goals and long-term health.
Fans from around the world have flooded her with well wishes and messages of support, offering encouragement during this unexpected detour in her season. Alica responded by thanking her supporters and assuring them that she’s doing everything she can to get back to full strength as soon as possible.
As she navigates this temporary setback, one thing is clear: Alica Schmidt’s resilience, passion, and growing success on the track have only made her journey more inspiring. While her training may be on hold for now, her determination to return stronger than ever remains unwavering.