Josh Kerr Criticizes Jakob Ingebrigtsen’s Decision to Skip Grand Slam Track

British middle-distance runner Josh Kerr has taken aim at his Norwegian rival Jakob Ingebrigtsen for opting out of Michael Johnson‘s Grand Slam Track event, scheduled to debut later this year. Kerr, the reigning Olympic silver medalist in the 1500m, suggested that Ingebrigtsen’s decision reflects his struggles in non-paced races.

In a recent interview with Citius Mag, Kerr stated, “I think it is smart that he hasn’t signed up. In any non-paced race, he hasn’t won in the last couple of years.” Kerr, who is preparing for the 2025 track season, including the Wanamaker Mile at the Millrose Games, added, “You’re gonna throw him in a bunch of non-paced races, it seems silly to do that.”

The rivalry between Kerr and Ingebrigtsen has been a focal point in the track and field world. Ingebrigtsen, the 2020 Olympic 1500m champion, has faced criticism from Kerr, who has consistently outperformed him in recent head-to-head matchups. Kerr’s comments come after Ingebrigtsen expressed doubts about Kerr’s ability to compete in cross-country events last December.

Ingebrigtsen responded to Kerr’s latest remarks in an interview with Norway’s TV2, saying, “The day he contributes to the race for world records, I will take him seriously. But only then.” The Norwegian athlete also addressed their ongoing feud in his Amazon documentary series, “Ingebrigtsen: Born to Run,” accusing Kerr of creating the rivalry through public trash-talking.

The Grand Slam Track event, organized by former Olympic champion Michael Johnson, features an unconventional format that includes 800m and 1500m races. Kerr expressed interest in competing in the event but questioned Ingebrigtsen’s ability to adapt to the 800m distance, saying, “Watching him run the 800 would be like a deer on ice.”

Meanwhile, Ingebrigtsen’s family has been in the spotlight following allegations of abuse against his father, Gjert Ingebrigtsen, who has denied the claims. The controversy has added another layer to the Norwegian athlete’s challenging year, which included missing out on a medal in the 1500m at the Paris Olympics.

As the 2025 track season approaches, the rivalry between Kerr and Ingebrigtsen shows no signs of cooling down. With both athletes set to compete in high-profile events, fans can expect more heated exchanges and thrilling races on the track.