Indoor Season Drives a Focus on Summer Goals
Mohammed Mule has earned medals at both European and world championships held outdoors, and the indoor season is now underway. The international sprint and middle-distance star clocked a standout time of 3:35.48 in the 1500-meter event during a meeting in Val-de-Reuil, France, on February 5. As in prior years, Europe’s indoor campaign remains limited, with the next major focus slated for March or later this month at the Spanish Championship. The track season is expected to wrap up on February 22, with Mule set to compete in Madrid as part of the World Indoor Athletics Tour, following a pre-event in Hauts de France on Wednesday. Yesterday, during a sponsorship signing with Gougo, the athlete spoke privately with La Opinión about his plans for the season.
What is Mule hoping to achieve as the indoor season begins?
He explains that keeping an indoor routine is essential to stay fit and avoid a long six-month gap that would blunt performance come summer. Early-season targets include a 1500-meter race, a 3000-meter effort, and a strong performance overall, which would provide a competitive edge for outdoor events.
Will he compete at the European Championships, given his decision to forgo the World Cup last year?
There is broad support for his European Championship appearance, yet Mule emphasizes his human limits and crystal-clear priorities. This year, the emphasis remains on summer and outdoor competitions. The World Cup is the priority, followed by the Diamond League meetings in the summer, rather than a heavy indoor schedule.
With a pre-Olympic year on the horizon, does every indoor decision carry extra weight?
Absolutely. The approach is to conserve energy for the essentials that pay off outside, where the real medals are won. Fewer distractions mean better preparation for the major events ahead.
Is there a risk in betting everything on a single strategy?
Not at all. Mule trusts his training plan and his coach Gabi Lorente, and the confidence is high. The strategy has shown its value in the past, and there is no hesitation about repeating it.
Last year’s results were encouraging. Is that why he remains consistent with the indoor plan?
Yes. The decision to skip the indoor World Cup last year aligned with a strong outdoor season, validating the approach and reinforcing the plan for this year.
Have there been adjustments to his winter preparations?
By all accounts, this winter preparation is stronger than last year. Mule notes that his recent indoor times hint at significant improvement; his 1500, 3000, and 5000 meters pacing echoes his best form from 2020, with a recent 1500 clocking around 3:35 in France signaling strong readiness for the summer circuit. This points to an edge over last year’s pace and marks a positive trajectory for the season ahead.
What happens after the indoor season wraps up?
The plan is concise. The final indoor race is scheduled for Madrid on February 22, with a decision on whether the 1500 or 3000 will be the focus for that meet. After a short rest, training ramps back up toward summer goals, with renewed focus and energy directed at the outdoor calendar.
Will the 1500m or 3000m remain the focal point on the indoor track, or is the choice clear for outdoors?
Indoors, Mule can balance both distances, but outdoors the emphasis shifts to the 1500 meters. In Diamond League events, he plans to contest the 5000 meters, with the 1500 meters serving as the target for the World Cup. A clear path emerges for the summer program.
Why target the 1500 meters specifically?
The 1500 offers a combination of strength, experience, and confidence. Mule even entertains the possibility of surpassing a personal best of 3:28 and beating his Spanish record, aiming to set a new standard in the 1500 and to trim his season’s bests further. It’s a bold but attainable ambition given current form.
Does he feel capable of hitting such a mark?
He does. With a bit more hunger, he believes the target is within reach and is prepared to push harder to realize it.
Does competition boost confidence for high-stakes racing?
Indeed. Mule notes that, while he was nervous at the Olympic Games two years ago, his performance history since then has built a steadier confidence. He now expects to race to win rather than simply compete, especially in top fields.
There is a mention of Jakob Ingebrigtsen’s 2022 perfect run. Does Mule feel closer to such dominance now?
He has already beaten Ingebrigtsen in Monaco, a testament to his improving form. The indoor season may not feature a clash this year, for reasons tied to scheduling and strategy, but the progress is undeniable.
What does the sponsorship momentum bring in practical terms?
Financial backing from sponsors helps Mule focus on training, reduce pressure, and maintain the discipline needed to peak for Paris 2024 and beyond. The support is a privilege that translates into more effective preparation and calmer routines during intense training blocks.
With Paris 2024 approaching, what is the immediate goal?
Support centers on the World Cup in Budapest this August, which will shape the lead-up to Paris. While Olympic dreams loom large, the plan remains grounded in the near term, placing the World Cup at the forefront of the season and mapping a clear route toward Paris when the time is right.
In sum, the indoor season is a strategic stage, designed not only to keep Mule in peak condition but also to set up a powerful summer assault on the world stage.