Pissing Off American Teammates, Noah Lyles Fires Back on 400m Controversy Ahead of Paris Olympics: “Push Me Out”

The sixth edition of the World Athletics Relays is set to kick off this weekend in the Bahamas, marking a return to the Thomas Robinson Stadium in Nassau for the first time since 2017. This year’s event will feature a streamlined schedule, focusing primarily on sprint events. The competitions will include the 4x100m and 4x400m relays for both men and women, as well as the mixed 4x400m relay. Although the selection of events is limited, the stage is set for a thrilling display of sprinting talent, with numerous star athletes set to showcase their skills in the third of four global championship events this year. One of the most anticipated athletes, Noah Lyles, had previously hinted at the possibility of participating in the 4x400m relay following his impressive performance at the World Indoor Championships.

At the time, this decision sparked massive controversy in the world of track and field. Many questioned why Noah Lyles, more renowned as a 200- and 100-meter sprinter, was allowed to run instead of Trevor Bassitt. Some even went as far as to claim that Lyles’s inclusion cost Team USA the gold medal. Now, ahead of the World Athletics Relays, the controversy has been reignited as Noah Lyles fires back at his American teammates regarding their participation in the 4x400m relay event.

Noah Lyles reignites 400-m controversy ahead of the World Athletics Relays

It was recently announced that Noah Lyles would only be contesting the 4x100m relay at this weekend’s World Relays. Lyles, who was part of the U.S. 4x400m team that secured a silver medal at the World Indoors, has expressed his intention to compete in the 100m, 200m, 4x100m, and 4x400m relays at the upcoming Paris Olympics.

In a post on X by CITIUS MAG, addressing the speculation surrounding his participation in the 4x400m relay, Lyles made a bold statement, saying, “Let’s just say a lot of people in the U.S. were very, very, very upset that I ran the 4×400. And to that, I say: Run faster. Push me out.” He said that he is training for the event, but only for the Paris Olympics.

Lyles’ decision comes after controversy erupted in March when Fred Kerley criticized the USATF (USA Track & Field) for including Lyles in the 4x400m relay team despite his lack of experience in the event. Kerley, along with other athletes such as Kenny Bednarek, who have previously specialized in the 400m, expressed their desire to participate in relay events at various championships and the Olympics but were overlooked.

In a tweet, Kerley voiced his frustration, stating, “Man I tell you last 3 year we been asking to be in that ish f*ck that Olympic storyline shit yall puppets no in between either.” The controversy surrounding relay team selections highlights the complexities and challenges faced by athletes striving to represent their country at the highest level of competition. As the World Relays approach, all eyes will be on Noah Lyles and Team USA, who are the current world champions, have an awesome lineup, even though some big names like Christian Coleman and Fred Kerley won’t be there this time.

But even without them, the team looks strong. Noah Lyles, Kenny Bednarek, Courtney Lindsey, and Pjai Austin make up a super fast group. They’ve all run the 100 meters in under 9.9 seconds and even boast of substitute runners, Kyree King and Kendal Williams. With strong competitors before them, Team USA is in for a massive showdown. Will they be able to defend their title? Comment below!.