The long jump event is undergoing a radical transformation—but not everyone is on board. Facing frustration from athletes, World Athletics recently tested the new take-off zone at the ISTAF Indoor meets in Düsseldorf and Berlin. While the goal was to reduce fouls and enhance spectator engagement, the change has sparked debate among those within the sport.

Is this innovation a step forward, or is it disrupting the integrity of the long jump as athletes know it? Will this adjustment truly enhance competition, or could it alter the very nature of the event? More trials and athlete assessments are set to take place. Before a final decision is made, early reactions reveal a clear divide.

A post by Citius Mag on X highlighted World Athletics’ latest findings from the meets where the new take-off zone was put to the test. It revealed, “World Athletics reported the results of its recent testing for its new take-off zone for the long jump at the ISTAF Indoor Düsseldorf and ISTAF Indoor Berlin meets.” In addition to the divided spectator feedback, the data from the meet showed a notable impact on performance. With the lower risk of fouling, athletes began adopting a “high-risk strategy” in their run-up. Thus, pushing the limits of their approach. This shift also led to a projected 10 cm improvement in jump distances, suggesting that the new take-off zone could influence not just consistency but also overall results. While many casual fans approved of the change, what about the athletes?

Not all athletes are fully embracing the change. World champion Malaika Mihambo sees both potential and pitfalls. “As a long jumper, I was pleasantly surprised to find that the difference wasn’t as significant as I had expected,” she shared. Long jump is about much more than just hitting the board. She acknowledged that utilizing the entire board could enhance momentum. It provides better feedback while allowing athletes to choose their take-off point. However, she also raised concerns, stating, “This approach also makes it more challenging for both athletes and spectators to estimate distances.” Does this change enhance the sport, emphasizing the need for further refinement?

The system isn’t perfect. It still has to prove it can surpass the traditional method. The challenge is balancing athlete safety with making the event more exciting for spectators. That’s the purpose of a pilot program. Experimenting and refining until the best solution emerges!

A divided takeoff questioning the future of the long jump

Malaika Mihambo’s resilience was on full display at the PSD BANK DOME in Düsseldorf. She tackled the challenge of World Athletics’ new Take-Off Zone. Despite the uncertainty surrounding the format, she embraced the change and still delivered a dominant 6.87m jump. Her third win of the season. While she acknowledged to Germany’s ARD network, “You could see a few things that need to be worked on,” her ability to adapt spoke volumes. The extended take-off area reduced fouls, allowing her to capitalize on a cleaner approach. Even with the added flexibility, Mihambo proved that raw talent and skill remain the ultimate deciders of success.

Not everyone is on board with the long jump’s new take-off zone. This includes Olympic great Carl Lewis and U.S. champion Tara Davis-Woodhall. Lewis dismissed the change as an “April Fools’ joke.” He argued it removes the event’s most difficult skill—hitting the takeoff board with precision. Davis-Woodhall echoed similar concerns, calling the rule “a little silly” as it undermines the technique she and others have spent years perfecting. She also raised a practical issue: lower-level competitors may struggle to implement the necessary technology. Creating a gap between elite and amateur athletes. Still, while she’s skeptical, Davis-Woodhall remains open to change.

What do you think about World Athletics’ new rule shaking things up? Let us know in the comments.