Wavelight technology has emerged as a revolutionary tool for both athletes and spectators. This system features a wave of LED lights that moves along the inside edge of the track at a pre-set pace, guiding runners toward target times. In distance events like the 800m, 1,500m, and 5,000m, programmers can set the lights to indicate key benchmarks, including meet and even world record paces.

Now, it’s also being used at the Apeldoorn 2025 event. While some see it as an innovation that enhances competition, others argue that it strips races of their organic nature. Is Wavelight technology diminishing the essence of competitive racing? Many track and field fans certainly think so.

The upcoming European Indoor Championships are set to be one of the most technologically innovative editions yet. One of the most notable changes is the introduction of wavelight technology, a pacing system designed to optimize race execution. Initially approved only for entertainment purposes, officials successfully pushed for its competitive use. “We’re the first championship to use wavelight in a competitive setting,” said Noor van der Lugt, event director at TIG. “European Athletics approved its use, and now it’s set to be a game-changer,” he added.

However, not everyone in the track and field community welcomes this change. Many fans feel that the system diminishes the unpredictability and drama of racing. One critic expressed their frustration, saying, “Wave lights are awful. It tells fans that the competition itself is secondary. The only thing that matters in this race is the time.” Such sentiments reflect a broader concern that wavelight technology might prioritize record-breaking performances over the raw, tactical nature of competition.

There’s no denying that wavelight technology can serve as a valuable tool for athletes. It allows runners to maintain an optimal pace, making record-breaking performances more attainable. But it also detracts from what track and field is about—the world’s best athletes competing against one another. However, the technology caters to the audience’s desire for fast-paced performances.

Remember when the king of the middle and long-distance category, Jakob Ingebrigtsen, shattered Daniel Komen’s two-mile record? That stood for 26 years. Many wondered how fast Komen could have run with today’s technology.

Wavelight technology may seem groundbreaking, but the idea of pacing with artificial assistance is not entirely new. Jos Hermens, a former Dutch distance runner and now an athlete agent, used police beacon lights to help him maintain pace when he broke the one-hour world record at the Papendal track in the Netherlands over four decades ago. Hermens placed lights along the track, synced to blink at precise intervals. If a light flashed before he crossed it, he knew he was behind the world-record time.

As the final touches come together for the European Indoor Championships, the excitement is palpable. However, the reaction from fans indicates a deep divide over whether wave lights enhance or diminish the sport. Some appreciate the innovation and its potential to push human limits. However, some fans seem angered. They fear it reduces the drama and unpredictability that make competitive racing thrilling.

Fans angered with the major technology update in Track and Field

The first and biggest question that arose on social media was: “Do fans want this?” The reactions from track and field enthusiasts suggest a resounding no. One fan expressed a mixed opinion, stating, “Not for championship racing, but I wouldn’t mind you using them for one 5,000m and one 3,000m at some point during the GST series.” This perspective highlights that while some see value in wavelight technology for specific races, they believe it has no place in championship-level competition.

Another fan was more direct, saying, “Wave lights are awful; it tells the fan that the competition means nothing in this race, only the time.” This sentiment captures a major concern among critics who argue that the essence of racing is head-to-head competition rather than an individual chase against the clock.

Some fans believe that track and field should prioritize great races over fast times. One fan voiced their frustration, saying, “Great races should be the advertisement. Fast times should be a bonus. I don’t see the value of this in actual championship competitions.” This argument underscores the belief that dramatic rivalries and close finishes should define the sport, rather than artificial pacing mechanisms.

Another fan took an even stronger stance: “No! They shouldn’t be allowed at any meets, especially a championship. But if they do, be sure to put a fan behind every athlete in the 60m and let them run a windy time.” This sarcastic remark suggests that if technology is allowed to influence races, it could undermine the purity of competition across all events.

The debate surrounding wavelight technology is far from settled. While some acknowledge its ability to push athletes to faster times, many argue that it diminishes the unpredictable excitement of competitive racing. Fans appear divided between those who see it as an innovative tool and those who believe it takes away from the true essence of the sport.