Controversy Surrounding Prize Money for Track and Field Gold Medalists at Los Angeles Olympic Games

The decision to provide prize money for track and field gold medalists at the upcoming Paris Olympic Games has sparked controversy among sports administrators, with the Association of Summer Olympic International Federations (ASOIF) expressing concern about the move. However, World Athletics president Sebastian Coe has defended the decision, emphasizing the importance of supporting athletes who often face financial challenges.

Coe’s initiative to award a total prize pot of 2.4 million U.S. dollars for winners in each of the 48 athletics events at the Paris Olympics has been met with mixed reactions. While some, like high jump Olympic gold medallist Mutaz Barsham and pole vault sensation Armand Duplantis, have voiced support for the move, others, including ASOIF, believe it undermines the values of Olympism.

Despite the backlash, Coe remains steadfast in his belief that providing financial support to athletes is crucial. He highlighted the struggles faced by athletes like Burkina Faso’s Hugues Fabrice Zango, who emphasized the importance of financial assistance in staying competitive.

While ASOIF has raised concerns about the impact of prize money on the purity of the Olympic Games, Coe assured that the budget allocated for medal prize money is minimal compared to the overall investment in developing track and field sports. He also expressed his intention to extend the compensation to silver and bronze medalists at the Los Angeles Olympic Games in 2028.

As the debate continues to unfold, it is clear that the provision of prize money for track and field athletes is a contentious issue that has divided opinions within the sports community. While some view it as a positive step forward for the sport, others are wary of the potential implications on the integrity of the Olympic Games.