Michael Johnson, an American sprinting legend, is launching the Grand Slam Track, a professional league aimed at providing Olympic track athletes with year-round competition opportunities. After his success in the sport, including breaking nine world records and winning four Olympic golds, Johnson reflects on his vision for this league in Miramar, Florida, where the first U.S. event is set to take place.
Grand Slam Track is unique in that it signs athletes to full-season contracts, featuring eight races over four meets each year. The league has already attracted prominent athletes like Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone and Gabby Thomas. Johnson emphasizes the importance of giving track stars a platform to showcase their talent outside of the Olympics, allowing them to build their brand and earn potential winnings. His initiative comes at a time when running is experiencing a boom, evidenced by record finishers in recent marathons.
The league has secured over $30 million in financing, of which more than $12 million is allocated for athlete prize money. The winning athletes will receive $100,000 for their events, providing much-needed financial support, especially for those without traditional sponsorship. Many stars, including three-time Olympic medalist Thomas, see this as a breakthrough for athletes to earn what they deserve regularly, akin to contracts in basketball and football.
Grand Slam Track focuses on head-to-head competitions, fostering engaging storylines to draw fan interest. Despite not having participation from some top athletes like Noah Lyles and Sha’Carri Richardson yet, Johnson believes their involvement is a matter of time. The league aims to elevate track and field, making it more appealing and rewarding for its athletes.
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