Usain Bolt takes break from athletics to 'recharge batteries' for Rio 2016

Usain Bolt has announced his decision not to race again this year but to focus his attention on preparations for the 2016 Olympics in Rio de Janeiro. Following on from his triple gold medal success at the World Athletics Championships in Beijing, Bolt was due to race in the 200m at this Friday's Diamond League finale in Brussels.

But the six-time Olympic champion will now instead take a short break to 'recharge his batteries' before returning to training later this year. A statement posted via his Facebook page read: "After the excitement of the past few weeks at the World Championships in Beijing I have decided not to race again in 2015.

"I am already thinking about next year and the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio where I will attempt to defend my titles in the 100m, 200m and 4x100m. I will enjoy a short break from training now to recharge before resuming background training next month."

Bolt is not in contention for the Diamond League title and feels he is best served ending the season without any fresh injuries.

"I have competed in Brussels many times over the years and it is always one of the best meets on the circuit. I was looking forward to running there this year but I'm happy to end the season without any injuries and ready to go for 2016."