“We’re revolutionizing the track landscape,” were the words of Michael Johnson just a few months ago when he unveiled his brainchild. A brand new track and field league, Grand Slam Track (GST). The greatest traction of the event is, of course, its $12.6 million (£9.9 million) prize pool. Then there is, of course, the fact that they have four international events annually. The league will have its debut in April 2025!

The GST promises $100,000 (£78,683) top prize per event, and the upcoming season will happen across Kingston, Philadelphia, Miami, and Los Angeles. It does sound revolutionary in a sport like track and field that has historically struggled with finances. The aim of GST is, of course, to rewrite that narrative and bring in fair compensation as well as global promotion of track athletes. “They deserve to be compensated,” were Johnson’s words! A noble cause indeed, but here’s the thing: despite an initial funding of $30 million, GST is in a bit of trouble. And now, Johnson just said, “I don’t think I can save track.” So what is going on?

Michael Johnson’s rescue mission—not so much of a rescue after all?

A few months ago, when Michael Johnson launched the big idea of the Grand Slam Track, the idea, of course, was loved. And hence the big initial funding. However, now, as the particulars for the event are being put into place, financial concerns loom over its feasibility. As per estimations, their estimated annual expense has come up to $15.2 million (£11.9 million). This, of course, includes the expenses that come with 48 athletes, big prize money, travel and venue costs, etc. That, however, adds up to 50% of the GST budget. Now, that is not an easy mountain to climb, and Johnson knows it, too!

In a recent interview with the BBC, despite GST struggles, Michael Johnson went on to say, “I think I can save track; I don’t think I can save track and field.” While it is understandable that Johnson believes in his venture, and yes, his idea is sure one that puts track athletes as well as the track at the forefront. However, it is clear that Johnson, too, carries some skepticism. Is it perhaps because of the cost itself? So, what exactly is the finance model?

Well, the model is shaky! As of now, the league relies heavily on unpredictable revenue sources like ticket sales and fan engagement, which might not cover the expenses. Now, on paper and in words, this might seem okay, but let’s look at the estimated revenue from ticketing. For example, Zurich’s 50,000-seat stadium could bring in around $2.5 million if sold out. On the other hand, there are smaller stadiums in the itinerary!

Stadiums like Miramar that have a 5,000-seat capacity only max out at $250,000. Meanwhile, Kingston’s 35,000-seater pushes the total up by $1.7 million, and U of Penn’s iconic stadium could add another $2.5 million. All that if the stadiums are completely sold out. Total? Roughly $6.95 million! While it seems huge, it is nowhere close to the expenses. Now arises the question of sponsorship.

Well, unfortunately, sponsorship remains undecided for Grand Slam Track. Most leagues usually have a big shoe brand or sports name tied to it months before the league. However, GST doesn’t. “You have to pick your battles to make the sport more popular,” says Michael Johnson. Well, it looks like GST is the one that might have picked the wrong battle. And why is that? Well, the dilemmas of finances don’t end there.

Grand Slam Track and the alternative broadcasting dilemma

It is no secret that most sports events conventionally derive a large amount of their revenue through broadcast deals. However, Michael Johnson’s Grand Slam Track took an alternate route here. They have gone for a streaming-first model via Citius Mag’s YouTube channel. So why do that? To battle another one of the issues with track leagues! The omnipresent issue of accessibility and visibility. To understand why it is important, let’s look at a decision another league made not so long ago.

Recently, Diamond League signed a streaming deal with FloSports starting in 2025. Previously, fans could catch the Diamond League on NBC’s network or stream it via Peacock for just $5.99/month or $59.99/year. Now, with FloTrack, that price goes to $29.99/month or $149.99/year. What’s more, the package excludes U.S. events like the iconic Prefontaine Classic. This shift doesn’t just complicate viewing options; it reduces accessibility. Considering this is the climate of the track, GST is doing a great thing. However, there’s a point of contention here, too!

While this decision aligns with GST’s branding of being the savior of tracks of sorts, the streaming will bring the track to a whole new audience. But it leaves the finances in shambles! Can GST sustain itself without the financial backbone of traditional broadcasting? As Johnson sees it, “My objective is to create the opportunities that athletes have always wanted and to put them on a stage that is worthy of their greatness, with races that mean something.” Well, there might be a Grand Slam Track 2025, but is it financially sustainable enough to keep going? The answers are up in the air. It is Michael Johnson’s vision against the world that has historically put track and field in the backseat! Here’s to hoping it is time for Track and Field to steal the spotlight.