Sebastian Coe expresses a strong desire to reintroduce cross-country running to the Olympics at the 2030 Winter Games. The President of World Athletics has been a vocal advocate for this inclusion, noting the positive shift in approach under the new International Olympic Committee President, Kirsty Coventry.
Coe highlighted the potential for cross-country to be featured in the 2030 Winter Olympics in the French Alps or in Salt Lake City in subsequent years. The event was previously part of the Summer Olympics until 1924, when it was removed due to extreme conditions in Paris. Moving it to the Winter Games could mitigate such challenges and broaden participation, particularly from African nations.
To reintroduce cross-country to the Olympics, Coe suggested a straightforward amendment to the Olympic charter. He is part of the IOC’s Olympic program working group, tasked with evaluating event size and the inclusion of sports, including potential crossovers from traditional Olympic disciplines.
Looking ahead to the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, Coe supports the scheduling of track events in the first week of the Games. Reflecting on his own Olympic experience in Los Angeles in 1984, where he won gold, Coe praised the city’s impact on broadcasting, sponsorships, and sustainability in sports venues.
A new event, RUN X, featuring the world treadmill championship, was recently announced. This championship will include qualifying races leading to a live final showcasing the top male and female competitors. Coe emphasized the event’s role in uniting the global running community.
Coe also expressed enthusiasm for the upcoming Ultimate Championships in Budapest, Hungary, scheduled for September 11-13. This three-day event will spotlight Olympic, world, and Diamond League champions in an evening format tailored for television audiences. With a focus on streamlining events and sharing benefits with the host city, Coe sees great potential for the success of these championships.