As the countdown to the Paris Olympics dwindles to less than 110 days, the anticipation in the sporting world reaches a fever pitch, with all eyes turning towards the French capital. Among the plethora of talented athletes gearing up for this pinnacle event, the spotlight in track and field falls on stars from Noah Lyles, Grant Holloway, Femke Bol, and numerous others as they prepare to showcase their speed and skills on the global stage.

However, amidst the excitement, dismay ripples through among track and field fans in the USA as they grapple with the disappointing revelation of Team USA’s absence from the forthcoming World Athletics U20 Championships, scheduled from August 27th to 31st, 2024. Citing concerns over safety and logistical hurdles, this unexpected turn of events has cast a shadow of uncertainty over the future of the sport, prompting reflections from a seasoned veteran boasting an impressive cache of 12 Olympic medals.

12x track and field Olympic medalist sheds light on growing issues in the sport

Michael Johnson, the decorated track and field veteran with 12 Olympic medals, including four golds, recently drew attention to troubling developments impacting global track and field championships. In a post on X, he highlighted the decision by the US not to send a team to this year’s World U20 Championships in Lima, Peru, citing concerns over safety, event timing, and competitive readiness.

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Further to shed light on the matter, Johnson mentioned various decisions taken by track and field federations and governing bodies around the world recently and questioned, “Is the track & field global champs model in trouble?” As we focus on this post, let us explore the decisions highlighted by Michael Johnson and why they were taken.

Concerns raised by Michael Johnson: explained

Michael Johnson’s post highlighted a series of concerning decisions impacting the global track and field community. These include UK Athletics sending fewer athletes to championships, the US opting out of the World Athletics U20 Championships, and struggles to find hosts for major events like the Commonwealth Games. Moreover, Barranquilla, Colombia, lost its hosting rights for the 2027 Pan American Games due to contractual breaches, while Birmingham’s financial difficulties jeopardized the hosting of the 2026 European Athletics Championship.

With Birmingham facing a £2.2 million shortfall and declaring bankruptcy, concerns linger about the event’s relocation and the viability of future championships. Additionally, the cancellation of the World Indoor Tour due to Birmingham’s financial concerns further exacerbates the situation, with UK athletics facing sponsorship and broadcast partner issues. Birmingham’s financial woes stem from a $760 million bill to settle equal pay claims, prompting spending limitations and causing widespread concern for sporting events. As these challenges raise questions about the future of track and field, what do you think? Is track and field dying? Comment below!

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