Sebastian Coe reveals plans for athletics revolution: 'Best of Best' event coming in 2026
The World Athletics president discussed his "Best of the Best" idea, which is part of his long-term vision for the sport of track and field.
Athletics
Big changes could be coming to track and field in 2026, with World Athletics president Sebastian Coe planning a new "Best of the Best" event for that year.
Speaking on global media calls earlier this week, Coe explained that his idea for the new major championship would see it being developed in a format friendly for television viewers.
The event would therefore see straight finals for field events, and only semi-finals and finals in track events, with no heats, involving only the world's very best athletes.
Further changes to athletics could also be in the works, including in long jump and triple jump, where Coe said nearly a third of all attempts are failed, resulting in less interest from TV viewers.
Additionally, the Briton – who was also in charge of the highly successful London 2012 Olympic Games, and won two Olympic gold medals on the athletics track – discussed the possibility of moving the World Championships marathons and incorporating them as part of the World Marathon Majors, a series of the top six marathon races (New York, Boston, Chicago, London, Tokyo, Berlin).
Next year, the sport will celebrate five World Championships – in cross-country, indoor athletics, outdoor under-20, team race walking, and the world relays – as well as the Olympic Games, ensuring it will be a bumper year for track and field.