Mexico returns to the world podium: Erick Portillo wins silver in the high jump

Mexico’s Erick Portillo delivered a historic performance at the 2026 World Athletics Indoor Championships, claiming the silver medal in the men’s high jump with a clearance of 2.30 meters, a personal best.

At 25 years old, Portillo ended a 27-year medal drought for Mexico at this event. He entered the final with a personal best of 2.28 meters, but in Poland he raised his level when it mattered most. His 2.30-meter clearance, achieved on his final attempt, proved decisive.

The Mexican athlete matched the mark of Ukraine’s Oleh Doroshchuk, who secured gold by clearing the height in fewer attempts. Portillo, on the other hand, needed three attempts to do so—a difference that ultimately determined the final podium standings.

A high-level final

The competition remained open until the very end. Portillo reached the final phase tied at 2.26 meters with Jamaica’s Raymond Richards and South Korea’s Sanghyeok Woo.

Ultimately, the Mexican prevailed with his 2.30-meter jump, surpassing Richards, who took bronze with 2.26 meters.

Mexico returns to the world podium

Portillo secured Mexico’s third medal in World Indoor Championships history, following the bronze medals of Ernesto Canto (Indianapolis 1987) and Alejandro Cárdenas (Maebashi 1999), and the country’s first-ever silver medal at this level.

“It’s historic for Mexico, for me; it’s my first silver medal at a World Championship. I’m extremely happy—I have no words. Now it’s time to enjoy it,” Portillo said.