Sebastian Coe emphasizes prize money's importance for athlete welfare in track and field
Sebastian Coe, World Athletics president, has defended the organization's decision to award prize money to gold medalists at the 2024 Paris Olympics, a move that made World Athletics the first international federation to do so. This decision, which offers $50,000 to each winner, was met with criticism from the International Olympic Committee and other federations, who argued it went against the Olympic spirit. Coe, a two-time Olympic 1500m gold medalist, stated that financial welfare is critical for athletes, underpinning their physical and mental well-being and allowing them to focus on training without undue stress. He also highlighted the upcoming World Athletics Ultimate Championships, a new biannual event in Budapest with a $10 million prize pot, where every athlete competing will receive a financial reward. Coe believes prize money is not a philosophical divide but a practical support for athletes and the sport's ecosystem, a view he has held for 50 years.
