Noah Lyles is of the opinion that only fifty percent of the latest track and field happenings are positive. Recently, the track and field realm has been going through a lot of changes. Firstly, the Diamond League streaming rights were acquired by Flotrack. Till now, fans could watch all the track and field on Peacock. But this would change come 2025. Secondly, the World Athletics announced a prize of $50k for all the Olympic gold winners in Paris. 

Commenting on the same, US track star Noah Lyles put forward his opinions. In what was a subdued expression of sentiment, Lyles did not look too pleased with everything that was going on. However, he did mention one aspect that he particularly liked. 

Noah Lyles finds positivity amidst track-and-field darkness

The Tokyo bronze medalist recently took to X to opine on the recent buzz in track and field. Highlighting a bright moment, he said, “So much new in the track world and only one of them I actually think is positive.” It can be assumed that Lyles was speaking about the reward system. In what seems to be a revolutionary step, the World Athletics put a broad smile on the athlete’s faces. 

Promising a monetary payment of $50,000 to all the gold medal winners is truly a brave step forward. This would make track and field the first discipline to have monetary rewards in the Olympics. Unfortunately, while this might be a welcome change, other things going on have not particularly been uplifting. 

Flotrack’s acquisition of the Diamond League streaming has left fans fuming. The platform demands fans to shell out $149.99 for a year to catch all the action. This would make the viewership limited and, in turn, have a negative impact on the sport. However, coming back to the good things, Seb Coe recently commented on the awarding system for NCAA athletes. 

Seb Coe advocates for NCAA athlete payments 

The NCAA has been alleged several times for not letting their athletes earn enough money. However, with the introduction of the NIL deal, scenarios have begun to change. On this note, Seb Coe was asked about his opinion if the NCAA would allow their athletes to receive the $50k prize money. 

Reflecting on the same, Coe said, “I sincerely hope so…The rules and protocols have changed, and I can’t imagine the NCAA would think that this is in any way other than helpful for the support and the ecosystem that the athletes are now operating under.” Thus, with monetary caviar to play for, this Paris Olympics is sure to become all the more interesting. 

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