Former Olympic champion Michael Johnson has announced plans to transform the landscape of track and field with the introduction of Grand Slam Track, a groundbreaking new competition set to debut in 2025.
The league will feature four prestigious annual events, branded as ‘Slams’, with two of these slated to take place in the United States. Johnson, who will also serve as the commissioner of the league, expressed his ambition to elevate the sport to new heights.
The launch of Grand Slam Track marks a pivotal moment for track and field,” Johnson stated. “Our goal is to keep this sport at the forefront of the sporting world year-round.
The announcement comes in the wake of World Athletics president Lord Coe revealing details of the Ultimate Championship, a biennial event scheduled to commence in Budapest in 2026. While Coe’s event promises a substantial prize fund, Johnson’s initiative has already secured over US$30 million in funding from investors and strategic partners.
Under Johnson’s vision, 48 elite athletes will be contracted to compete in all four ‘Slams’, committing to showcase their talents across the league’s events. An additional 48 athletes will receive guaranteed appearance fees for individual competitions, ensuring a broad spectrum of track and field stars participate.
We are excited to launch this new platform for the planet’s greatest racers in this sport we all love,” Johnson commented. “Our team has worked tirelessly to design and build a product that will be loved by fans and provide opportunities for our racers that they truly deserve.
With the aim of enhancing fan engagement and athlete visibility, Grand Slam Track promises to deliver a thrilling new chapter for track and field enthusiasts worldwide. Johnson’s venture into league ownership and management signifies a bold step towards reshaping the sport’s competitive landscape and securing its place in the global sporting zeitgeist.
