In 1990 he won the European Championships double finishing first both indoor and outdoor over 1500 m. Herold was renowned for his finishing kick which secured him victories over potentially stronger competitors. However, in 1991 he lost an almost certain bronze medal at the World Championships in Tokyo on the finishing line. He was overtaken by his countryman Hauke Fuhlbrügge while Noureddine Morceli and Wilfred Kirochi won gold and silver.