What's happened
GST's collapse has left hundreds of athletes owed money after a failed 2025 season. Johnson says he has secured payments, but creditors allege broader financial mismanagement. The saga continues as lawsuits and bankruptcy filings unfold.
What's behind the headline?
The core tension
- GST promised salaries and prize money to as many as 96 athletes and 170 staff across events in Miami and Philadelphia, with a total outlay surpassing $11 million for three meets.
- The bankruptcy filing in December 2025 reveals debts topping $30 million, with hundreds of athletes waiting for payments.
- Johnson has publicly defended his actions, noting he loaned €2m to cover costs and used his own credit card for travel, saying he will be repaid.
What this means for athletes
- Athletes face delayed earnings and the erosion of trust in professional track leagues.
- The conflict between investors, creditors, and athletes risks damaging the sport’s economics and star power.
What comes next
- Legal proceedings and creditor claims will shape whether athletes receive full compensation or face protracted disputes.
How we got here
Grand Slam Track (GST) launched in 2025 to pay athletes salaries and prize money for a four-event circuit. The venture collapsed after a final Los Angeles meet was cancelled, prompting GST to file for bankruptcy in December 2025. Creditors have since alleged mismanagement and undisclosed loans by founder Michael Johnson.
Our analysis
AP News reports that Hudson-Smith says he has not been paid fully and that 40 million in debts is listed in court filings. The BBC and Independent corroborate the figure of over $30m in debts and Johnson’s claim of paying athletes with an $11m payout, with some funds in escrow. The Telegraph interview quotes Johnson detailing his financial sacrifices to support athletes.
Go deeper
- Will athletes be paid in full or reduced settlements?
- What legal outcomes are expected for GST and Johnson?
- How will this affect future athlete-driven leagues?
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