A German sprinter has challenged Manchester City striker Erling Haaland for a 400m race.
Alica Schmidt, who has won two junior European medals in the 4x400m relay, backed herself to beat the Norwegian over her preferred distance, although she did admit it would be ‘more difficult’ over 200m.
Haaland tore up English football in his first season at the Etihad, with 52 goals in 53 appearances as City won the treble.
Part of the 23-year-old’s success came from his impressive pace, which saw him clocked at over 22mph last season.
Schmidt, who is also a model with over 4 million Instagram followers and made the prodigious Forbes 30 under 30 list in November, recently set a personal best over 400m of 52.18 seconds (averaging around 17mph), and has backed herself against Haaland.
German sprinter Alica Schmidt has challenged Erling Haaland to a 400m race
The German sprinter backed herself over her preferred 400m but admitted 200m would be ‘more difficult’
When asked by Norwegian outlet Dagbladet if she could beat him in a race, the 24-year-old replied: ‘Hmm, I don’t know – maybe. I think, on 400m, yes. On 200m, it would be more difficult. But I would be happy if the race takes place.’
She was then quizzed on when the race might happen, and replied: ‘I don’t know, I have to ask him. But I’m always ready.’
‘So, Haaland, if you’re ready to race, I would be happy. Let’s see who’s faster!’
Schmidt previously took on Borussia Dortmund centre back Mats Hummels in a similar race two years ago, and won in comfortable fashion.
The World Cup-winning defender fell to the ground and lost his breath after the race before telling Schmidt she ‘makes it look so easy.’
It is worth noting that Hummels was 32 at the time and has never been known for his pace, so Haaland would likely mount a better challenge.
The striker has had a mixed start to the new season, scoring a brace against Burnley in the opening game before going goalless in a tense 1-0 win over Newcastle.
Pep Guardiola’s side will next be in action against Sheffield United on Sunday.
Aside from sprinting, Schmidt is a model with over 4 million Instagram followers. She was named on Forbes’ 30 under 30 list last year.
She defeated Borussia Dortmund defender Mats Hummels in a 400m race two years ago
