World Athletics Warns GST Track Series Faces Uncertain Future Amid Bankruptcy
The Grand Slam Track (GST) series has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy, with creditors owed between $10 million and $50 million. The league owes hundreds of thousands of dollars to top track and field athletes, including Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone ($356,250), Gabby Thomas ($249,375), and Josh Kerr ($218,500), as well as the Wimbledon-based broadcasting and advertising agency, Girraphic, which is owed $690,624.
In October, athletes received only 50% of the payments owed for events held in Kingston, Jamaica, Miami, and Philadelphia. The final scheduled event in Los Angeles was canceled due to financial difficulties.
World Athletics President Sebastian Coe has cautioned that there is no guarantee GST will be allowed to return in 2026 unless it adopts a sustainable financial model. Coe emphasized that World Athletics controls the calendar and any new events must have appropriate credentials and assets to be considered.
Looking ahead, Budapest is scheduled to host the World Athletics Ultimate Championships in September 2026, featuring the largest prize pot in history and a different organizational model. GST is currently led by Michael Johnson.
