World Athletics Ditches Medals For Ultimate Championship Trophies

By TAYO TAIWO (T. T.) OLUWOLE

NIGERIA’S Tobi Amusan and other winners at the inaugural World Athletics Ultimate Championship will receive trophies instead of traditional medals.

World Athletics announced the new awards format ahead of the championship in Budapest, Hungary, from 11 to 13 September.

Only athletes who finish first in their respective events will receive trophies. There will be no silver or bronze medals.

World Athletics President Sebastian Coe said the decision reflects the championship’s goal of identifying the “best of the best” in global athletics.

According to Coe, awarding only the winners better captures the event’s central idea. The championship, he explained, is designed to crown the athlete who finishes on top.

Meanwhile, every athlete at the inaugural event will receive a personalised bracelet as a commemorative token.

Each adjustable bracelet will carry the athlete’s name on the exterior. The official name of the championship will appear on the inside.

Amusan, who is expected to compete in Budapest, could therefore leave with one of the specially designed trophies. Regardless of her final position, she will also receive the commemorative bracelet.

The championship will bring together leading athletes from around the world. They will compete for the distinction of becoming the ultimate champion in their respective disciplines.