Michael Johnson, the mastermind behind the Grand Slam Track series, abruptly canceled the final leg in Los Angeles, leaving the city without a major track event this summer. The innovative series, which aimed to revolutionize track racing by focusing on finishing positions rather than times, had raised approximately $30 million for its launch. Notable athletes like Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone and Gabby Thomas were signed on, although stars like Sha’Carri Richardson and Noah Lyles did not participate. The first three events in Kingston, Jamaica, Miami, and Philadelphia raised $9.45 million, with an additional $3 million expected from the LA leg.

The cancellation of the LA event came after the USA Track and Field decided to remove the LA Grand Prix from its calendar due to the unfeasibility of hosting two major track meets in the city within a short timeframe. Economic issues with the venue were cited as the reason for the Grand Slam Track cancellation, with plans to regroup for the 2026 season and attract new investors. USATF emphasized the importance of collaboration and partnerships for the financial sustainability of track meets.

In response to the cancellations, USATF is working to find alternative competitions for athletes needing to meet qualification standards for upcoming world championships. This turn of events was disappointing for Olympic and track leaders gearing up for the first US-hosted Summer Games since 1996. The situation underscores the challenges of maintaining financially viable track events and the necessity for coordinated efforts to ensure the future success of the sport in Los Angeles and across the United States.