Michael Johnson has cancelled the Los Angeles leg of his Grand Slam Track competition, describing the move as a “business decision” to secure the league’s future. The event, scheduled for 28-29 June as the fourth and final leg of the season, was pulled after a Zoom meeting with athletes and representatives on Thursday.
The Independent understands that the deal with host UCLA had become financially unviable, with estimated losses of over $2 million had the event gone ahead. Organisers aim to announce a new sponsor next week for the 2026 season and felt avoiding losses was crucial to secure that investment.
Johnson said in a statement: “The decision to conclude the inaugural Grand Slam Track season is not taken lightly, but one rooted in a belief that we have successfully achieved the objectives we set out to in this pilot season, and the importance of looking towards 2026 and beyond.” He added that the global economic landscape has shifted, and the move ensures long-term stability.
The competition, featuring stars like Kenny Bednarek, Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone, Josh Kerr and Dina Asher-Smith, saw slow ticket sales and unmet sponsorship and broadcast revenue expectations. The Times reports organisers will save around £2.2 million in prize money and travel expenses by cancelling the LA event.
Despite half-empty stadiums in Kingston and Miami, the Philadelphia event drew nearly 30,000 tickets over two days. Organisers are reviewing locations for 2026, considering European cities, and remain committed to hosting a Slam in Los Angeles as part of the 2026 season.
