Gatlin has agreed with Noah Lyles on the big TV and streaming situation regarding Michael Johnson's Grand Slam league that has to be met to consider joining.
American sprint legend Justin Gatlin has thrown his support behind Noah Lyles' demands regarding his potential involvement in Michael Johnson’s Grand Slam Track League.
Lyles, a three-time world champion in the 200m, recently expressed his interest in joining the league but set a firm condition: there must be a reliable platform for fans to watch the events.
During an appearance on the Night Cap show, Lyles confirmed that discussions with Johnson and his team were ongoing. However, he made it clear that he would only consider signing up if the league secured a consistent broadcast or streaming platform. Lyles emphasized the importance of visibility for both the athletes and the sport itself.
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“We’ve been in talks since the day I heard about it. Trying to get as much information. Trying to get as much of a feel for what’s going on. There’s a lot that I like that he’s doing. There’s a few things that I think could be a little better,” Lyles said.
He further stressed, “The thing that’s stopping me at the heart of it is I have yet to hear of a TV provider. Again, what good is it if we’re producing these great times, great shows, these great rivalries and we have nobody seeing it?
“Now we’re in the same problem we’re in with the Diamond Leagues and World Championships. I need to hear a TV provider and I need to know that it’s going to be seen consistently.”
Gatlin, the 2004 Olympic 100m champion, echoed Lyles' concerns, underscoring the critical role that media coverage plays in elevating track and field. Gatlin pointed out that while television coverage is important, the timing of broadcasts and the choice of platform are crucial factors that could make or break the league’s success.
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“I personally just think that Track and Field needs to be streamed. They need to go to a streaming service that is going to be a strong provider,” Gatlin said on his Ready Set Go podcast.
He added, “Even he was apprehensive about the Grand Slam because he was like ‘Where is the TV deal at?’ TV is good but be careful what you ask for. You do not want to be on TV and your races are at 11:30 at night or 6:00 in the morning. Time slots are critical.
“ You could be on ESPN, but you are on ESPN 3. There are time slots that will benefit our sport and others that are going to end our spot.”
Gatlin further advocated for utilizing a major streaming service, such as Amazon, to ensure widespread access and engagement for track and field events. He believes that the interactive nature of streaming platforms could revolutionize the sport’s appeal.
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“You want to get prime time television. You want to work to get those slots. If they find a good streaming service, that is available for everyone.
“ Certain streaming services allow you to put in your input on what is going on. Can you imagine a whole group chat of everyone watching the track meet and everyone watching the stats and people making side comments in real time?” Gatlin mused.
“Everyone wants to become a commentator in what is happening, and I think that is where track and field should go. It should become more exciting, fast-paced, and streamlined.”
The Grand Slam Track League, which is gaining momentum, has already signed two-time Olympic champion and 400m hurdles world record holder Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone and reigning 1500m world champion and Olympic silver medalist Josh Kerr as its first professional athletes.
According to Johnson and his team, their goal is to sign 48 athletes to compete as Racers in the league. Lyles’ potential involvement could add significant star power to the league, provided his conditions for media coverage are met.
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