Grand Slam Track owes athletes $13M after its debut season collapse, but founder Michael Johnson vows payments and a 2026 return.
Start-Up Faces Financial Setback
Grand Slam Track, a professional athletics league founded by four-time Olympic champion Michael Johnson, is struggling to pay athletes after its inaugural season fell short of financial expectations.
Promises of Big Payouts
The circuit debuted in 2025 with high ambitions, offering track and field athletes unprecedented prize money and global exposure. However, the organization cancelled its final meet in Los Angeles and shortened an earlier Philadelphia event, citing financial strain.
Millions Still Owed
Reports from Front Office Sports revealed the league owes around $13 million USD to athletes who competed this season. Johnson admitted payment timelines were missed after funding commitments failed to materialize. “We promised that athletes would be fairly and quickly compensated. Yet, here we are struggling with our ability to compensate them,” he said.
Why the Funding Fell Short
According to Johnson, pledged financial support was withdrawn as circumstances changed beyond the league’s control. The sudden loss of backing left the start-up unable to meet obligations despite its strong roster of international talent.
Plans for Recovery
Despite the setback, Johnson emphasized that Grand Slam Track will not fold. Instead, he committed to settling outstanding payments before pressing forward with a 2026 season. “It is incredibly difficult to live with the reality that you’ve built something bigger than yourself while simultaneously feeling like you’ve let down the very people you set out to help,” he said.
What Comes Next
Athletes remain cautious but hopeful as they await compensation. With questions about investor confidence and operational stability, the league’s future hinges on its ability to deliver on promises. If payments are made and sponsorship is secured, Grand Slam Track could still evolve into a major player in professional athletics.
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