Dutch-Nigerian sprinter and rising track star, Churandy Odukoya, has his eyes firmly set on representing the Netherlands with distinction — and he’s determined to inspire the next generation while he’s at it. In a recent interview, Odukoya shared his ambitions, expressing a heartfelt desire to make his country proud on the international stage and serve as a role model for young athletes who dream of following in his footsteps.
At just 21, Odukoya has already made waves in the Dutch athletics scene with his blistering speed and infectious energy. His performances this season have turned heads, as he consistently shaves fractions of a second off his personal bests in both the 100m and 200m sprints. But for Odukoya, it’s not just about medals and records — it’s about legacy and impact.
“I want to make the Netherlands proud,” Odukoya said. “I hope I can be an example for kids who see me and believe they can do it too, no matter where they come from or what they look like.”
Born to Nigerian parents but raised in Amsterdam, Odukoya embodies the multicultural identity that defines much of Dutch sport today. He’s open about the challenges he’s faced balancing two cultures and proving himself in a highly competitive environment, but says it has given him the resilience and perspective he now channels on the track.
“It hasn’t always been easy,” he admits. “There were times I felt like I didn’t fit in completely — not Nigerian enough there, not Dutch enough here. But I learned to use that as fuel. It pushes me to run harder and show that I belong.”
Odukoya’s breakthrough came last year when he stunned many by making the national finals and clocking sub-10.20 times in the 100m — still shy of the Dutch record, but enough to announce himself as a force to be reckoned with. Since then, he’s been training under renowned coach Laurent Meuwly, focusing on refining his technique and mental approach ahead of the European Championships and the Paris 2024 Olympics.
His ambitions are clear: “The dream is to stand on that podium with the Dutch flag around my shoulders. That’s what I think about every day.”
Beyond the medals, Odukoya wants to change perceptions about who can represent the Netherlands in athletics. He regularly visits schools and youth sports clubs, speaking to kids from immigrant communities about discipline, hard work, and self-belief. His message is simple: greatness has no single face.
“Sometimes when I see the kids, I see myself at their age,” Odukoya said. “I want them to know they can be more than they ever imagined. If I can help them see that, then I’ve done my job.”
With his focus, charisma, and raw speed, Odukoya is fast becoming one of Dutch athletics’ most promising figures. As the season heats up, all eyes will be on him to see if he can turn potential into podiums. But win or lose, his determination to inspire — and make the Netherlands proud — might be his greate
st achievement yet.
