Usain Bolt wants to “make a bigger impact” in track and field athletics The eight-time Olympic champion has reached out to track and field’s international federation to ask for a role in growing the sport…

Usain Bolt wants to “make a bigger impact” in track and field athletics

The eight-time Olympic champion has reached out to track and field’s international federation to ask for a role in growing the sport…

 

Eight-time Olympic gold medalist Usain Bolt, widely regarded as the greatest sprinter of all time, has expressed a desire to take on a more active role in the development of track and field. Having retired from competitive athletics in 2017, the Jamaican icon has continued to serve as an ambassador for the sport, but now he is seeking to make a more substantial and direct impact.

Bolt recently revealed that he has reached out to World Athletics, the sport’s global governing body, to explore opportunities for contributing to the growth and promotion of track and field worldwide. In public statements, he acknowledged the sport’s current struggles with visibility and fan engagement, emphasizing the need for innovation and charismatic leadership to help it thrive in an increasingly competitive global sports landscape.

“I’ve said it over and over again, the sport needs personalities, the sport needs people who are going to help it grow and take it to the next level,” Bolt said. “I’ve reached out to World Athletics to say, ‘Hey, how can I help?’ I want to be more involved in making a bigger impact.”

During his illustrious career, Bolt not only dominated the track with world records in the 100m and 200m but also captivated global audiences with his charm, charisma, and iconic “Lightning Bolt” pose. His presence brought unprecedented attention to athletics during the 2008, 2012, and 2016 Olympics, turning sprinting finals into must-watch events. Since his retirement, no athlete has fully stepped into that vacuum, and viewership for major track events has faced challenges, particularly outside of Olympic years.

Bolt’s push for involvement comes at a time when World Athletics is exploring new ways to modernize the sport and attract younger audiences. Innovations like the Diamond League revamp, the introduction of new formats such as street meets, and digital engagement campaigns are part of the current strategy. Bolt believes he can offer valuable insight into how the sport can evolve without losing its core appeal.

“Track and field needs to keep up with the times. Young people want excitement, drama, stories. We have that in athletics, but we need to tell it better and sell it better,” he said. “Athletes also need to learn how to market themselves and be more visible outside of race day.”

World Athletics President Sebastian Coe has in the past praised Bolt’s influence and legacy, calling him “irreplaceable.” While there has been no official announcement from World Athletics regarding Bolt’s new role, his outreach could signal a collaborative future that benefits from his unmatched experience and star power.

For fans of the sport, Bolt’s renewed commitment offers a spark of hope. His involvement could bring fresh energy to the track and field community, help identify and mentor emerging talent, and promote initiatives aimed at making the sport more accessible and exciting.

As track and field looks to a future beyond past glories, the return of its most electrifying figure—even off the track—may be just the boost it needs.