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Sports • 4h ago

BBC not planning to use Johnson in 2026 coverage

BBC not planning to use Johnson in 2026 coverage
**BBC Snubs Michael Johnson for 2026 Athletics Coverage** In a surprise move, the BBC has announced that it will not be featuring four-time Olympic gold medalist Michael Johnson in its athletics coverage for 2026. This decision comes on the heels of the collapse of Johnson's Grand Slam Track (GST) league, which ceased operations in December 2025. The GST league was a high-profile venture that promised lucrative prize money and salaries to contracted runners. However, the final event was cancelled, and the organisers later filed for bankruptcy in the US. This debacle has left many athletes and creditors unpaid, raising concerns about the viability of such ambitious projects. Michael Johnson has been a regular pundit and commentator for the BBC since 2001, but has not worked with the broadcaster since the Paris 2024 Olympics. Following the Games, he shifted his focus to the GST league, which has now proven to be a costly mistake. According to sources, the BBC has no plans to feature Johnson in its 2026 athletics coverage. This move is likely a result of the controversy surrounding the GST league and Johnson's association with the project. While Johnson is a celebrated athlete with a wealth of experience, his involvement with the GST league has cast a shadow over his reputation. The BBC's decision is not a surprise, given the circumstances surrounding the GST league. However, it is a blow to Johnson's career, which had been on the rise after his Olympic success. The move is also a reminder of the risks involved in ambitious projects, especially in the world of sports, where finances and reputations are often at stake. As Nigeria's athletics scene continues to grow, with stars like Tobi Amusan and Ese Brume making waves internationally, the BBC's decision is likely to be of interest to fans and stakeholders in the country. The GST league's collapse serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of careful planning and risk management in high-stakes projects.
Source: Original Article • AI-enhanced version for clarity & Nigerian context

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