Repechage Rounds Debut in Paris Olympics Track Events
New qualifying format offers second chance for athletes in select races, enhancing competition and fan engagement.
- Repechage rounds introduced for the first time in Olympic track events from 200m to 1500m.
- Athletes who don't qualify in initial heats get a second chance to reach semifinals.
- This format replaces the 'fastest loser' system previously used for qualifying.
- World Athletics aims to increase exposure and excitement with the new structure.
- Events with repechage include hurdles and middle-distance races, but not the 100m or long-distance events.