Amy Hunt and Dina Asher-Smith were among the athletes left stuck at the Alexander Stadium on Saturday after a "police incident" involving a man with the incorrect stadium accreditation suspended transport operations at the European Championships in Birmingham.
A West Midlands Police spokesperson confirmed at around 3 a.m. on Sunday that a man in his 30s had been "arrested on suspicion of fraud" and in an statement on Sunday afternoon, the force revealed that "concerns were raised after a man was found in an area of Alexander Stadium with the wrong accreditation."
The security concern was understood to be significant enough that West Midlands Police took over the situation, and precautionary measures -- including suspending transport for the Championship staff and athletes -- were implemented.
The full statement from West Midlands Police, issued before the final evening session of the championships, read: "A man was arrested following concerns of suspicious activity at the European Athletics Championship last night.
"At around 8.15 p.m., concerns were raised after a man was found in an area of Alexander Stadium with the wrong accreditation.
"As a precaution, security measures were put in place and transport for the Championship staff and athletes were suspended. This then led to delays to transport from the stadium for the wider public.
"A man in his 30s was arrested on suspicion of fraud and remains in custody for questioning.
"We understand the concern this may have caused and can confirm there was no immediate risk to the public.
"As always, our priority is the safety of the public and we want to thank everyone for the patience."
The Press Association understands the athletes still left on site -- including the British men's and women's 4×100 relay teams, who had won gold in the final two events of the penultimate evening session -- were sent back to the high performance centre next to the venue.
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When transport services did resume about one hour and 45 minutes later, those competing on Sunday, the final day of the championships, were prioritised.
PA understands that none of Saturday's relay team members were able to leave on time, and a number of support staff were also affected.
Hunt is hoping to complete a historic quadruple of European titles in a single championships with gold in the inaugural mixed 4x100m relay.
There was a heavy police presence outside the 23,000-capacity stadium, which had been near capacity, and huge static queues of spectators waiting for shuttle buses.
PA also understands the decision to cancel six medal ceremonies, due to take place between 10 p.m. and 11 p.m, was related to the police incident.
Members of the public who were not waiting for the shuttle buses were free to leave of their own accord, and a statement on the event's official account at 11:03 p.m. apologised for the "significant delays" but did not explain the cause.
A statement from Birmingham 2026 organisers, issued in the early hours of Sunday morning, confirmed the arrest was made and that transport operations had returned to normal.
It added: "We recognise that the delays presented challenges for those affected and would like to thank everyone for their patience, understanding and cooperation throughout the evening."