Sebastian Coe expresses his enthusiasm for reintroducing a cross-country running race to the 2030 Winter Olympics. As the president of World Athletics, Coe has been advocating for the inclusion of this event in the Olympics for a long time. He credits the new International Olympic Committee president, Kirsty Coventry, for her openness to exploring new ideas, which has created a more collaborative atmosphere.
Discussing the possibility of incorporating cross-country running in the 2030 Winter Olympics, Coe mentioned potential locations such as the French Alps or Salt Lake City. He highlighted that cross-country running was part of the Summer Olympics until 1924 when it was discontinued due to extreme weather conditions in Paris. Moving it to the Winter Games could address previous challenges and enhance global participation, especially from African nations.
Coe emphasized the need for a simple amendment to the Olympic charter to allow winter sports to be eligible for inclusion in the program, a topic he is actively involved in as a member of the IOC’s Olympic program working group. Looking ahead to the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, Coe supports the idea of scheduling track events in the first week, although specific details are yet to be finalized.
Additionally, a new event called RUN X was recently announced, featuring the world treadmill championship with qualifying rounds leading to a live final. Coe also expressed excitement for the upcoming Ultimate Championships in Budapest, Hungary, which will showcase top athletes over three evening sessions. The event aims to engage a global audience and support the host city through ticket sales and sponsorships.
Overall, Coe’s initiatives reflect a strategic vision to innovate and enhance the appeal and inclusivity of athletics on a global scale.