Leo Neugebauer crowned himself European decathlon champion with 8,611 points at the European Athletics Championships in Birmingham on Wednesday, collapsing across the finish line of the final 1,500 metres to secure the title.
Neugebauer finished 38 points clear of compatriot Niklas Kaul, who took silver with 8,573 points after sprinting home fourth in the 1,500 m. Norway's Sander Skotheim claimed bronze with 8,433 points. Amadeus Gräber finished eighth with 8,162 points.
The gold caps a remarkable run for Neugebauer, who now holds the German record of 8,961 points and adds the European title to his world championship, Olympic silver medal and national record. Earlier in the competition, defending champion Johannes Erm of Estonia withdrew after the first day, while Neugebauer had led from the midway point with 5,340 points after six events.