Track Legends Compete in Groundbreaking Grand Slam Track Event

Kingston, Jamaica — From April 4 to 6, 2025, the inaugural Grand Slam Track event will showcase the world’s elite track athletes, promising a new era for the sport. Spearheaded by legendary sprinter Michael Johnson, this competition aims to transform track and field into a premiere athletic spectacle.

Grand Slam Track introduces a roster of 48 top-tier athletes, competing for a significant prize purse of $12.6 million across various events. “Track and field has failed to reach its potential for years,” Johnson stated, emphasizing the need for a fresh approach to promote the sport. The need for recognition is apparent, as rankings from Sportico failed to include any track athletes among the world’s highest-paid.

The meet will feature elite competitions across men’s and women’s short sprints, long sprints, hurdles, and middle-distance events. Notably absent, however, are traditional field events and relays. Each participant will race in two events per meet. The phased competition is set for Miami in May, Philadelphia in late May, and Los Angeles in June.

This weekend’s lineup includes prominent names such as Olympic gold medalist Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone, middle-distance runner Josh Kerr, and sprinter Fred Kerley. The event at Kingston’s National Stadium, newly updated with a fast Rekortan surface, is already generating excitement among athletes and fans alike. “I really think Grand Slam is going to be really huge for track and field,” said Yared Nuguse, who is set to compete in the 1500 meters.

Each event winner will receive $100,000, while eighth place will earn $10,000. Additionally, a year-long points system will determine the overall champions for both men and women, making every race critical for standings.

Amid favorable weather forecasts, many athletes see this competition as a turning point for their careers. “We have to be part of the change of the sport,” said Kerr, hopeful for elevated exposure and financial rewards. Johnson’s vision is not simply an event — it seeks to establish a new standard within athletics.

The Grand Slam Track series is not only positioned to enhance the visibility of track athletes, but it also aims to bring fresh fans to the sport. Johnson highlighted the collective impact of the athletes in his message following the inaugural event: “You are superstars, and you should be treated like superstars.”

The challenge ahead is substantial, as the stigma surrounding track’s limited financial rewards remains. Yet, the participation of high-profile athletes in the league presents an opportunity for change. McLaughlin-Levrone, who enters as a strong favorite in the women’s 400-meter hurdles, expressed optimism about the prize structure and overall athlete experience. “We need a platform showing off our sport,” she insisted.

As the world watches, the Grand Slam Track promises to be a catalyst for innovation and excitement in athletics, redefining the landscape for current and future generations. Johnson’s ambitious goal to enhance recognition for track athletes might soon become a reality, reshaping their roles in the sports arena.