Kidderminster athlete receives surprise call-up for Paris 2024

The 21-year-old modern pentathlete will make his Olympic debut in place of Myles Pillage, who was forced to withdraw due to injury.

Pillage injured his calf at the world championships four weeks ago and, despite intensive rehabilitation, re-injured his calf on his return to training.

Brown, who was targeting a spot at Los Angeles 2028, has now been called up under the IOC’s late athlete replacement rules (LAR rules).

“I’m extremely grateful to have had this opportunity,” Brown said. “To be competing in the Olympics so early in my career is something I’m very proud of.”

“I am extremely sad for my teammate and friend, Myles. He is an incredible athlete, who works exceptionally hard, and I wish him the best in his recovery.

“I have worked very hard over the last few years towards Paris, with the aim of competing for Team Great Britain for the Los Angeles 2028 Games.

“My results have really stepped up since I made my senior debut 18 months ago and I’m really excited to be representing Team GB and giving my all for the team.”

Brown, who has been part of the GB elite pentathlon team since 2021, won team silver alongside Pillage and Joe Choong at last year’s world championships.

Georgina Harland MBE, GB Modern Pentathlon Team Manager, said: “For Myles to have his dream of competing at the Olympics taken away through injury is devastating.

“He has been a very valuable member of the Performance team throughout his career and has fully earned his place in Paris.

“We all wish him a speedy recovery and will do all we can to support him through this difficult time.

“This has given Charlie an incredible opportunity that he will seize. He is a great athlete with huge potential and he has prepared alongside the team, so we are confident he is ready to perform.”