What will Grand Slam Track do for athletics?

Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone, Gabby Thomas, Cole Hocker, Josh Kerr and Yared Nuguse are among those to have signed up to Michael Johnson's new track and field league but many big games are still missing. 

Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone storms home to win a gold medal and set a new world record in the 400m hurdles final at the Paris Olympics. Picture: ©INPHO/Morgan Treacy

One competitor was in danger of lapping the field. In the race for attention stateside, American football is way out in front. Track and field lay just above an asterisk.

Since 1972, football has topped Gallup’s annual poll. Last year, 41% of respondents said it was their favourite sport, over 30% clear of the nearest contender. Track and field finished level with gymnastics and wrestling at 1%. Swimming was even further behind, beside the sports marked with * for less than 0.5%. Four years out from LA 2028, the major Olympic codes are keen for popularity. Michael Johnson is out to deliver it.