Tensions mount as the track and field community prepares for the much-awaited World Athletics Relays in the Bahamas amid controversy. The world record holder for the indoor 400-meter track and field event, Michael Johnson, has voiced reservations regarding the World Athletics Relays. He advocated for a more inclusive approach to arranging track events by pointing out shortcomings in event administration and a lack of emphasis on spectator interaction. In his analysis, Johnson calls on “athletes and federations,” and even the needs of fans first, to deal with the underlying problems that are endangering the sport’s international appeal and expansion.

The sixth World Athletics Relays took place on May 4–5 at Nassau’s Thomas Robinson Stadium, and it promised to be an exciting display of sprinting prowess. However, as Michael Johnson’s recent comments have made clear, questions about the general fan experience have been raised. But what did Johnson mention?

The X-handle of “@MJGold“ expressed concerns about the World Relays in a recent tweet post, mentioning, “Feels like the primary focus is providing an opportunity for athletes and federations, and fans are an afterthought,” highlighting the need for a plan that is more fan-focused. Even though the event might have been exciting for casual fans, the post criticized the event’s poor broadcast quality and low attendance, saying that “Stands were half full for an event I believe the casual fan would find incredibly entertaining.”

However, these comments highlight a rising belief in the track community for a change in emphasis that puts the involvement and enjoyment of the fans first. Also, preparations for Team USA have been clouded by dissatisfaction among teammates, prompting inquiries into the team’s internal dynamics and the selection process.

Noah Lyles reflecting on the criticism leveled at World Athletics Relays

Thinking back on the criticism of world relays, the American sprinter Noah Lyles admitted that caused “a lot of controversy” and conflict on the team, stating, “Some people got written up, other people were threatened with fires.” He maintains his composure in the face of odds, noting that his contribution was determined by the results and merit. “Let’s just say a lot of people in the US were very, very, very upset that I ran the 4×400 and to that I would say, ‘run faster, push me out!’” he said. In addition to world relays, Lyles is preparing for the Paris Olympics.

Moreover, Lyles is aiming to win 4x medals and is ready to excel in France following his superb showing at the world outdoor championships in Budapest last year, where he won gold in the 100, 200, and 4×100-meter relay. However, things have sometimes gone differently than planned. Despite fierce opposition, he took home 2X silvers at the World Indoors in Glasgow earlier this year: one in the 60-meter event and another in the 4×400-meter relay. But his selection for the relay team caused a stir, with teammate Fred Kerley accusing him of showing partiality. Hence, as Lyles gets ready to compete in the 2024 Summer Olympics with just 81 days to spare, he is resolute in his pursuit of Olympic glory on the playing field.