Michael Johnson Removed From BBC World Championships Coverage – Here’s Why

Michael Johnson Removed From BBC World Championships Coverage – Here’s Why

 

Four-time Olympic gold medallist and long-time BBC athletics pundit Michael Johnson will not feature in the BBC’s coverage of the 2025 World Athletics Championships in Tokyo, ending a broadcasting streak that spanned over two decades. The sudden absence of one of the sport’s most respected analysts has raised eyebrows—and now, the reasons behind the decision are becoming clearer.

A Familiar Voice Missing

Johnson has been a staple of BBC’s athletics coverage since 2001, offering expert analysis, unique insights, and a calm authority that endeared him to millions of viewers. His commentary has accompanied countless Olympic and World Championship moments, making his exclusion from this year’s coverage a notable shift.

The BBC has not released an official statement explaining Johnson’s absence. However, a representative for the American sprinting legend claimed he had “other commitments” and was “looking forward to working with the BBC again in the future.” Behind this diplomatic language lies a more complicated story.

The Grand Slam Track Fallout

At the centre of the controversy is Johnson’s new venture: Grand Slam Track, a professional track and field league he launched earlier in 2025. Marketed as a revolutionary circuit offering large prize purses and direct financial support for athletes, the league promised top stars up to $100,000 per race win and a total prize pool in the millions.

The league held its first event in April in Kingston, Jamaica. But from the outset, problems emerged. Attendance was underwhelming, sponsorships didn’t materialize as expected, and promised broadcast deals fell through. Financially, the league has struggled—so much so that multiple athletes, coaches, and vendors remain unpaid months after the inaugural event.

Olympic medalist Gabby Thomas was among several athletes to speak out, revealing she had yet to receive promised winnings. The planned Grand Slam Track finale in Los Angeles was quietly cancelled, fuelling further backlash and questions about the league’s sustainability.

BBC Distances Itself

While Johnson has not been directly accused of wrongdoing, the controversy surrounding Grand Slam Track has had a clear reputational impact. According to multiple reports, the BBC made the decision to pause his involvement in this year’s World Championships coverage, likely to avoid associating its brand with an unfolding financial controversy.

The move has divided opinion among athletics fans and insiders. Some argue that Johnson, as a major figure in global track and field, should be given the benefit of the doubt while the league attempts to resolve its financial issues. Others believe the broadcaster was right to distance itself until the matter is clarified.

What’s Next for Johnson?

Despite the current situation, Johnson’s representatives suggest this is not a permanent split with the BBC. Whether he returns to the broadcaster in time for the 2026 European Championships or the 2028 Olympics remains to be seen.

In the meantime, Johnson faces the dual challenge of restoring confidence in his business venture and repairing any reputational damage. As one of athletics’ most iconic figures, his next steps—on and off the track—will be watched closely.