Michael Johnson’s Grand Slam Track (GST) is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated events in track and field for 2025, with its unique format featuring four high-profile slams: in Kingston, Miami, Philadelphia, and Los Angeles. The event has drawn significant attention due to its focus on “only the fastest,” and boasts a stellar roster, including stars like Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone, Fred Kerley, Josh Kerr, Cole Hocker, and others. However, there is one glaring omission that has sparked plenty of debate within the track community: Noah Lyles and Sha’Carri Richardson.
THE FINAL FIVE! 🤩
The 2025 season is set with all 48 official Grand Slam Track Racers! pic.twitter.com/P51uVQce3t
— Grand Slam Track (@GrandSlamTrack) December 19, 2024
The Absence of Lyles and Richardson
The absence of Noah Lyles, the 100m Olympic champion, and Sha’Carri Richardson, the Olympic silver medalist in the 100m, from the Grand Slam Track roster has raised eyebrows. The community was buzzing with anticipation, expecting both to be part of this high-profile event. When the final five athletes were revealed for the roster—Zharnel Hughes, Brittany Brown, Caleb Dean, Diribe Welteji, and Freddie Crittenden—there was an undeniable sense of disappointment. While these athletes are certainly top-tier competitors, many track fans felt that the addition of Lyles and Richardson would elevate the event even further, especially given their prominence in the 100m and 200m sprints.
Why Aren’t Lyles and Richardson in GST?
Noah Lyles has been clear about his priorities for the 2025 season. In a response to a fan on social media, Lyles explained that GST conflicted with his training schedule, especially with a focus on defending his World Championship titles in both the 100m and 200m. Given the timing of the event and his training commitments, Lyles didn’t feel it was feasible to compete in GST. Additionally, the event not being broadcast on local TV also diminished its appeal for the reigning Olympic 100m champion, as he has more high-profile opportunities that better align with his goals.
As for Sha’Carri Richardson, there has been no official statement on why she isn’t participating, but it’s clear that her absence is also a point of contention. Richardson has had a remarkable resurgence in the sprinting world and could have been a major draw for GST, particularly after her successful 2023 season. Whether it’s contractual issues or scheduling conflicts, Richardson’s omission has left many fans wondering about the dynamics behind the decision.
The Impact on GST
While GST boasts an impressive roster of athletes, the exclusion of Lyles and Richardson could impact the event’s overall appeal. Both Lyles and Richardson have massive fanbases, and their participation would likely have drawn even more attention to the event. Their absence highlights a larger question within the track and field world: What is the right balance between training, personal career goals, and participating in marquee events like GST?
Despite this, the event is still likely to be a success due to its exciting format, the quality of its athletes, and the fanfare surrounding Michael Johnson’s leadership. However, the track community is buzzing with the question: Is GST missing out on its full potential by not including two of the most recognizable names in American sprinting? Fans and experts alike are already speculating about the future of the event and whether Lyles and Richardson might eventually become involved, but for now, it’s clear that GST will continue to evolve, even if it’s without its biggest stars.