Olympic medalist Jenny Simpson collapses during track event, hospitalized after receiving CPR and defibrillation
Jenny Simpson, the American Olympic bronze medalist and former world champion, collapsed and stopped breathing during a mile event in Raleigh, North Carolina on Tuesday. After receiving CPR and defibrillation on the track, she was taken to hospital where she is recovering.
Incident during the mile
On 16 June 2026, Jenny Simpson was pacing a mile group at a Pop Up Miles event organized by Sir Walter Running in Raleigh, North Carolina. The 39-year-old former professional runner suddenly collapsed on the track and lost consciousness. Witnesses and media reports indicated she stopped breathing and had no detectable pulse.
Emergency response
Emergency medical personnel on site immediately began cardiopulmonary resuscitation and used an automated external defibrillator. Simpson's pulse was restored before she was transported to a nearby hospital. According to Italian outlet Fanpage, she is currently conscious, not considered in danger of life, and remains under close monitoring, with a reserved prognosis.
Organizer statement
Sir Walter Running released a statement expressing gratitude and asking for support.
We are incredibly grateful to the individuals who responded immediately, as well as EMS and the medical professionals who handled the situation with such care, urgency, and professionalism.
The organizer added that Simpson is receiving excellent medical care and urged the public to keep her in their thoughts.
Jenny is receiving excellent medical care, and our thoughts are with her and her family during this time.
Simpson's career and current role
Jenny Simpson (née Barringer) represented the United States at three Olympic Games (Beijing 2008, London 2012, Rio 2016). Her achievements include becoming world champion in the 1500 meters in 2011, taking silver at the 2013 and 2017 World Championships, and winning Olympic bronze in 2016, the first American woman to medal in that event. She retired from competitive running at the end of 2024. In early 2026, Simpson was appointed Chief Running Officer of tech company Fleet Feet, a role highlighted by one Italian source in the context of her participation in the Sir Walter Running event.
