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For a revolutionary track and field event, potentially missing two of the sports biggest names in Noah Lyles and Sha'Carri Richardson could prove catastrophic.
The track and field world is abuzz with anticipation for Michael Johnson’s groundbreaking Grand Slam Track League, set to debut in 2025.
Spanning four meets across four cities, the league promises to be a thrilling spectacle, with a lineup already boasting track giants like Gabby Thomas, Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone, Masai Russell, Kenny Bednarek, and Fred Kerley, among others.
However, the absence of two of the sport's biggest names in Noah Lyles and Sha’Carri Richardson, casts a shadow over the league’s potential success.
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10:23 - 07.12.2024
‘Weird spot' - Noah Lyles on running at Grand Slam Track in Jamaica after death threats to fiancé Junelle Bromfield
Olympics 100m champion Noah Lyles has given his opinion on whether he would be comfortable running at Grand Slam Track in Jamaica following threats to his fiancé Junelle Bromfield.
Lyles, widely regarded as the face of men’s track and field, has been a dominant force, while Richardson’s electrifying performances position her as a leading contender for the title of women’s sprint queen alongside stars like Gabby Thomas.
Johnson, the legendary Olympian spearheading the league, has acknowledged the importance of securing top-tier talent.
“Noah’s certainly one of those (stars the league is looking to acquire). I mean, Noah is the fastest. Those sorts of athletes are the people that we want to be part of this league,” Johnson stated in as Essentially Sports.
However, despite efforts to recruit Lyles and Richardson, neither of the two heavy-hitters has yet committed to the league.
Lyles has made his conditions clear about the involvement of a major broadcaster being crucial for him to join.
This stance underscores his understanding of the league's need for visibility and broad appeal to fans. On the other hand, Richardson’s reasons for not signing on remain unclear, adding an air of mystery to her absence.
With three of the four meets set to take place in the United States, the absence of these two superstars could hinder the league’s ability to capture widespread attention.
Richardson’s massive following and charismatic presence have the potential to amplify the league’s reach, while Lyles’ polarizing persona could attract a diverse audience, including those outside the traditional track and field fanbase.
The Grand Slam Track League aims to revolutionize the sport by bringing together the best athletes and providing fans with unparalleled competition. Yet, missing two of the sport’s most marketable and influential figures could impact its inaugural season's success.
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12:00 - 05.12.2024
'I don't see it as a threat' - Michael Johnson's Grand Slam Track receives backing from World Athletics boss Seb Coe
The Grand Slam is set to make its debut next year but it has received a lukewarm reception from stakeholders
While their absence raises concerns, there’s still hope that Lyles and Richardson will join the league. The allure of competing alongside other elite athletes and the opportunity to further cement their legacies could ultimately sway them.
For now, their potential participation remains one of the biggest unanswered questions as the league prepares to make its debut.
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