David Jose Pineda Mejia Sprints to Glory with Championship Record in Men’s T20 400m Final

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The Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in New Delhi erupted with energy as the finals of the Men’s T20 400m took center stage at the IndianOil 2025 World Para Athletics Championships. It was a clash of champions, featuring Rio 2016 gold medalist Daniel Martins (BRA), Tokyo 2020 gold medalist Charles-Antonio Kouakou (FRA), Paris 2024 silver medalist David Jose Pineda Mejia (ESP), and Saudi Arabia’s rising star Idris Sufyani (KSA).

The race delivered everything fans could have hoped for. Martins surged ahead after the 200m mark, only to be challenged by Pineda at the 300m. As the two battled stride for stride, Sufyani powered forward to join the fight for medals. In the final stretch, it was Pineda who stormed across the finish line, clocking a blistering 47.12s to secure his first World Championship gold — and set a new Championship Record. Remarkably, he had broken his own record twice in two days, first in the heats and then again in the final.

Speaking to Virtus Sport after the race, an elated Pineda said,

“I knew it was going to be a pretty fast race, like the semifinals yesterday. I was trying to be on the first few until the 300m because I know I can give a stronger finish and win the race. I am feeling great. I am happy that I was able to improve the record. Today, the weather helped me a lot. I was not able to go under 47, but maybe next time.”

Reflecting on his race strategy, he added:

For Pineda, this medal carries deep significance, “This medal is very important for me as I set my goals at the beginning of this season for this championship. The truth is that I wanted the world record, but it seems like I have to go after it another year. It was one of my long-term objectives. I would like to dedicate this medal to my teammates. Without them, I wouldn’t be doing athletics today. I am going to celebrate this medal with my people, my family, and my training group.”

Silver went to Daniel Martins, who delivered a powerful performance that confirmed his resurgence in the T20 400m. The Brazilian, visibly proud, said,

“It’s the weights I have lifted for two or three years, and now I have won the silver medal, what a joy. Brazilian flag will be on the podium, so I am even happier.”

The Rio champion reflected on his evolution as an athlete:
“I am much more mature now. I am still the same Daniel from Rio 2016, but a lot happier, with a better head.”

He also praised the new generation,
“There are a lot of new athletes coming up now, young and very talented ones. We (senior athletes) have to prepare twice as much as they do. Rivalry is on the track, but outside the track, we joke, we laugh and maintain friendship.”

Martin dedicated his silver to his supporters, “I want to dedicate this medal to my god, my family, my friends, to my sponsors and to all Brazilians. We have to enjoy this win, run in the rain and enjoy. I am going to eat a big cake tonight and enjoy my victory with my friends.”

Idris Sufyani of Saudi Arabia claimed the bronze medal with an impressive 47.55s, sealing his place among the world’s best in this electrifying final.