The global governing body for track and field has criticized the bankrupt Grand Slam Track league for considering funding future events before resolving its outstanding debts from the 2025 season. World Athletics issued a statement on Monday in support of a recent stance taken by a group representing top-tier runners, expressing disapproval of the league’s plan to allocate $400,000 for athlete recruitment in 2026 while still owing money to 300 individuals and companies.
In its most recent bankruptcy filing, Grand Slam Track disclosed debts exceeding $40 million. World Athletics condemned any efforts to relaunch the league in 2026 without first settling financial obligations to athletes, vendors, and service providers, emphasizing the importance of fair treatment and timely payments. The president and CEO of GST, Steve Gera, has not responded to inquiries from The Associated Press.
Although Grand Slam Track operated independently of World Athletics, the federation acknowledged the league’s events by awarding athletes world ranking points based on their performance in the three meets. World Athletics clarified that any potential licensing or support for GST would be contingent upon the resolution of its outstanding debts.
Notable athletes awaiting payment include Olympic champions Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone ($268,750), Gabby Thomas ($185,625), and Marileidy Paulino ($173,125), as indicated in the bankruptcy filings. Additionally, U.S. Olympic gold medallist Michael Johnson, the league’s founder, is owed over $2 million from a loan he provided before GST’s final event in Philadelphia last spring. The next hearing in the bankruptcy proceedings is scheduled for Wednesday.