GST Cancels LA Final, Eyes 2026 and Expansion

Michael Johnson's Grand Slam Track (GST) competition abruptly ended its inaugural season after cancelling the final Los Angeles leg due to financial concerns, including poor ticket sales and insufficient sponsorship and broadcast revenue. Organizers cited a potential loss of over $2 million if the LA event had proceeded, prompting the decision to preserve the league's future and attract new investment for 2026. The cancellation surprised many athletes and raised questions about GST's business model, despite earlier promises of significant prize money and efforts to boost the sport's profile. Johnson called the move a necessary business decision, emphasizing the league's commitment to long-term sustainability and claiming the pilot season's objectives were met. Organizers hope to announce new sponsors and are considering expansion to new markets, including Europe, for the 2026 season. The first season had already experienced low attendance at previous events in Kingston, Miami, and Philadelphia.