World Athletics unveils lane draft, jump-offs for new Ultimate Championship

WEB DESK: Sprinters will be allowed to choose their own lanes, while jump-offs will determine winners in the high jump and pole vault. Television viewers will also get access to win probabilities and live fan feedback as World Athletics introduces its new Ultimate Championship.

The sport’s governing body unveiled a series of innovations on Thursday for the inaugural event, scheduled to take place in Budapest from September 11 to 13. The changes are part of a broader effort led by World Athletics President Sebastian Coe to make athletics more appealing to younger audiences and create a more entertainment-driven product.

Among the most eye-catching changes is a “lane draft” for the men’s and women’s 200 metres, where athletes will select their preferred semi-final heat, and line up live in front of media and fans the day before competition.

Runners will pick in order of their world ranking.

The Ultimate Championship will also guarantee outright winners in the vertical jumps, with no first-place ties permitted. Instead, any deadlock in the high jump or pole vault will be settled by a jump-off.

Field events are also being streamlined. Apart from the vertical jumps, all athletes will receive two attempts before the field is gradually reduced from eight competitors to six and then four, ensuring the focus remains on the leading contenders.

Broadcasts will feature augmented graphics, including projected finishing positions and win probabilities.

Athlete introductions in the stadium and other event presentation elements have been developed alongside Olympic champion Noah Lyles, while pole vault world record-holder Mondo Duplantis has created the event’s anthem.

The competition will have a different appearance, set against a black infield designed to draw attention to whichever event is taking place.