In a historic transfer, World Athletics introduced on Wednesday that observe and discipline could be the primary sport to introduce prize cash on the Olympic Video games, with gold medalists set to obtain $50,000 on the upcoming Paris Olympics.
This determination marks a major departure from the custom of amateurism that has lengthy been related to the fashionable Olympics.
Sebastian Coe, president of World Athletics, emphasised the significance of acknowledging the efforts and dedication of athletes by returning a portion of the revenues generated by the Olympics on to them. With a complete of $2.4 million allotted for gold medalists throughout the 48 observe and discipline occasions, World Athletics goals to acknowledge the function athletes play in making the Video games a worldwide spectacle.
The prize cash might be distributed from the share of Olympic income that the Worldwide Olympic Committee (IOC) allocates to World Athletics and different sports activities governing our bodies. To be eligible for the prize, athletes should endure the standard anti-doping procedures on the occasion.
May sign a shift within the Olympic panorama
Whereas the fashionable Olympics have traditionally maintained novice standing and avoided awarding prize cash, many athletes obtain funds from their nations’ governments, sports activities our bodies, or sponsors. World Athletics’ determination to introduce prize cash might sign a shift within the Olympic panorama and will replicate Coe’s intentions for the way forward for the Video games.
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Sebastian Coe’s potential candidacy for the IOC presidency provides one other layer of significance to this determination, hinting at potential modifications in Olympic coverage below his management. Coe has not dominated out the potential for operating for the IOC presidency, and this initiative might form his platform if he decides to pursue the place.
General, World Athletics’ transfer to reward Olympic gold medalists with prize cash represents a milestone within the evolution of the Olympic Video games, highlighting the worth of athletes’ contributions and paving the way in which for potential modifications in Olympic traditions and insurance policies.
