World Athletics Announces $10 Million Ultimate Championship, Cutting Key Events

The 2026 event in Budapest promises record-breaking prize money but excludes several iconic track and field disciplines, drawing criticism from athletes and fans.

• The World Athletics Ultimate Championship will debut in Budapest in 2026, featuring a streamlined three-day format with 26 events condensed into three-hour sessions each evening.
• The event boasts a $10 million prize pool, the largest in track and field history, with $150,000 awarded to each gold medalist.
• Several iconic events, including discus, shot put, women’s hammer throw, 10,000m, steeplechase, and men’s triple jump, have been excluded to fit the condensed schedule.
• Athletes and fans have criticized the cuts, arguing they leave many top competitors without a platform and undermine the inclusivity of the sport.
• World Athletics CEO Jon Ridgeon defended the changes, citing the need for a fast-paced and engaging format, but the decision has sparked widespread disappointment.

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