Olympian Michael Johnson has a track and field league’s future is uncertain.

Formation Of Grand Slam Track

As AFROTECH™ previously reported, in 2024, Johnson announced plans for a track and field platform to help athletes commercialize their rights. The venture reportedly received a seven-figure investment from Winners Alliance, which was “the single largest investment in track and field history,” according to Sportico.

The venture also marked a full-circle moment for Johnson, who holds records in the 200- and 400-meter races, according to the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Museum.

“I love this sport and owe everything I have to this sport,” Johnson told Sportico.

He added, “It’s been a shame for me to watch it over the last couple decades since I retired not be able to continue to provide the same amazing moments to people, outside of just the Olympics.”

Expectations

NBC News reported that Johnson claimed he secured $30 million in funding to support the formation of Grand Slam Track, a professional track and field league. He also said athletes would receive unprecedented payouts.

Per the outlet, the “biggest winners” of each of the league’s four meets were promised $100,000 — five times the amount awarded in other global track circuits. Additionally, one-third of the funding was said to be allocated for prize earnings, totalling more than $3 million per meet.

NBC news also noted that the 48 contracted competitors could earn a yearly base salary plus a portion of revenue from group licensing.

Funding Promises Not Kept

It appears the league has not maintained its promises, jeopardizing its future. A source told NBC News that nearly $13 million is owed to athletes, and vendors are still waiting to be compensated. Johnson addressed the matter in a statement on Instagram, revealing that he did not receive the committed funding and worked “tirelessly” with Grand Slam Track’s board and investors to find a solution. The league ended its season early to prevent further losses.

“Due to our strong desire to make this right as quickly as possible, we offered dated payment timelines and have been unable to meet them. Understandably, this has led to frustration, disappointment, and inconvenience to our athletes, agents, and vendors. I know this damages trust. I know this makes some wonder if our vision can survive. That is why we are not addressing the immediate problem; we are putting systems and partnerships in place to ensure it never happens again,” the statement read on the post.

Keeping Hope Alive

Johnson also clarified that the 2026 season will not progress until “obligations” are met. The priority is paying athletes and satisfying outstanding debts.

“Despite the challenges of the past few months, I remain confident about the future of Grand Slam Track,” he said via Instagram.

The Olympian also emphasized that this isn’t the end for the league.

“We are not done yet,” he said in the same statement. “Not even close.”