The Bowerman Mile at the Prefontaine Classic carries a deep sense of tradition. Held as part of Nike’s flagship meet, the race honors Bill Bowerman—the legendary coach who built the University of Oregon’s running powerhouse and co-founded Nike. He also played a key role in shaping the career of Steve Prefontaine. Over the years, the event in Eugene has symbolically kept their legacies intertwined. But this year, both the Bowerman Mile and the broader track and field showcase appear poised for a shift—something new may be on the horizon.

According to the schedule, the Prefontaine Classic is set to take place on July 5 at the University of Oregon. Significantly, the Bowerman Mile is included in the Diamond League circuit, meaning a victory there offers both crucial points and substantial prize money. However, Jakob Ingebrigtsen was faced with a choice—and it appears the Olympic champion opted for a bold and unexpected path.

On June 29, respected journalist Jonathan Gault revealed the news via his tweets, confirming that Jakob Ingebrigtsen’s name was absent from the entry list. It wasn’t just Jakob—Keely Hodgkinson also pulled out of her event, the women’s 800m. The reason? Both athletes are currently recovering from injuries. However, after capturing gold in the women’s 800m at the Paris Olympics, Keely Hodgkinson had registered for the Prefontaine Classic, selecting it as her season debut. Meanwhile, Jakob Ingebrigtsen had previously committed to the Ostrava Diamond League but withdrew at the last moment. Despite his absence now, the Bowerman Mile field still remains strong and competitive.

The lineup features notable names such as Reynold Cheruiyot, Timothy Cheruiyot, Grant Fisher, and Jake Wightman, ensuring the competition will still be intense. In the women’s 800m, Tsige Duguma is also set to compete. The Ethiopian star took silver in the same Olympic final where Keely Hodgkinson claimed gold, setting up what could have been a thrilling rematch. However, that showdown won’t take place—at least not in Oregon on July 5. Still, another compelling track and field rivalry is set to unfold at the Prefontaine Classic, and it’s one fans won’t want to miss.

The track and field world is waiting to see the Olympic rivalry 

Sha’Carri Richardson has only raced once this season—but she’s back, and she’s bringing the fire to the Prefontaine Classic in the women’s 100m. Joining her on the start line? Melissa Jefferson-Wooden, her training partner down in Florida. The duo isn’t just close in practice—they were side by side on the Olympic podium just 10 months ago, grabbing silver and bronze. But wait—what about the gold?

Enter Julien Alfred. The St. Lucian sprint queen is in the mix too, and she’s not coming quietly. Julien and Melissa currently hold the two fastest times in the world this season, so this showdown is shaping up to be serious. Three of the world’s best. One track. And a whole lot of speed. Buckle up—the women’s 100m at Pre is about to go off.