As part of its pioneering change programme, World Athletics has announced major changes to key events in track and field most notably the long jump and the relays.
World Athletics has unveiled a series of key innovations aimed at modernizing track and field, most notably the long jump and mixed relays.
These changes align with the organization’s four-year strategic plan, Pioneering Change (2024-2027), which aim to ensure the sport remains relevant in an evolving entertainment landscape.
One of the most groundbreaking developments is the introduction of a take-off zone for horizontal jumps, an innovation tested during the World Athletics Indoor Tour events in Düsseldorf on February 9 and Berlin on February 14.
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Traditionally, long jumpers must hit a specific take-off board, but the new system allows athletes to launch from anywhere within a designated take-off zone.
According to World Athletics early results indicate a significant impact on competition dynamics as fouls dropped from a historical average of 32% to just 13%, and initial data suggests an expected performance boost of about 10 centimeters per jump.
Spectator surveys revealed mixed reactions. While over two-thirds of casual fans supported the innovation, those deeply involved in the sport—athletes, coaches, and experts—remained more aligned with the traditional method.
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Two-time world champion Malaika Mihambo, who won in Düsseldorf with a leap of 6.87m, shared her perspective.
“I was pleasantly surprised that the difference wasn’t as significant as I expected. It allows me to utilize the entire board, enhancing momentum, but it also makes estimating distances more challenging. The system needs refinement, but it’s promising," she stated via World Athletics.
World Athletics CEO Jon Ridgeon emphasized that further testing will guide future decisions.
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“Innovation is at the forefront of our agenda. While nothing will be implemented without thorough research and athlete input, the take-off zone is a strong candidate for future competitions," he urged.
In a move to capitalize on the popularity of relay events, World Athletics is set to introduce the mixed 4x100m relay.
The format, which will be tested at the 2025 World Athletics Relays, aims to increase global competitiveness and engagement by featuring teams of two male and two female athletes.
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The relay order at the World Relays will be female-female-male-male, though alternative orders may be explored in later tests.
This format presents new strategic challenges, particularly with baton handovers between athletes with different top speeds.
Given the immense fan appeal of relays, World Athletics hopes this new format will bring fresh energy to the sport.
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Beyond the long jump and mixed relays, World Athletics is exploring additional innovations, including a steeplechase mile for a faster alternative to the 3000m steeplechase, advanced predictive modeling for better forecasting at the 2025 World Indoors, new scheduling tools to enhance fan engagement, and instant measurement technology to reduce event downtime.
As part of its broader Pioneering Change strategy, World Athletics is committed to balancing tradition with modernization, ensuring that athletics remains a thrilling spectacle for both longtime fans and new audiences.