The reigning 1500m and 10,000m world champion is set to compete over the longer distances this year as she bids for a first Olympic medal.

Those who specialise in the 1500m and 5,000m will find it difficult to compete in both in Tokyo, with many instead opting for the 5,000m and 10,000m double.

The women's 5,000m final falls on August 2, the same day as the 1500m heats.

Hassan confirmed her plan in an interview with Dutch public broadcaster NOS.

"The 1500m remains my favourite, but I don't see myself running that distance at the moment," Hassan said.

"I have to do a few races to know where I am [physically] - three or more."

Hassan is currently training in The Netherlands due to visa complications and the pandemic, but hopes to return to a training base in the United States in March.

"It is difficult to get an appointment at the US embassy, so we have to be patient," added manager Sander Ogink.

The plan is currently March 22. 

"Hopefully it can be brought forward."

Hassan is one of the best distance athletes in the world and holds European records in the 1500m, mile, 3,000m, 5,000m and 10,000m

Hassan's mile time of 4min 12.33sec, set in Monaco in 2019, is also the world record.

In addition to the outdoor accolades, Hassan is a two-time European indoor champion and a former world indoor champion.

Hassan was coached by Alberto Salazar from 2016 until the American was banned for four years by the United States Anti-Doping Agency. 

Salazar is currently in the process of appealing this decision to the Court of Arbitration for Sport, which is due to hear the case in March.