Sebastian Coe expressed his enthusiasm for reintroducing cross-country running to the Olympic Games at the 2030 Winter Olympics. As the head of World Athletics, Coe has been a strong advocate for including this event in the Olympics. He praised the openness of the new International Olympic Committee president, Kirsty Coventry, in exploring new possibilities.
Coe disclosed that discussions have been held regarding the potential inclusion of cross-country running in the 2030 Winter Olympics in the French Alps or in Salt Lake City in the following years. The sport was previously part of the Summer Olympics until 1924, when it was eliminated due to extreme weather conditions causing challenges.
By considering cross-country for the Winter Games, Coe believes it could address past issues and provide a platform for more countries to participate, particularly African nations that could excel in the sport. He emphasized the opportunity to diversify the Winter Games and make it more inclusive.
For cross-country to be reinstated, Coe mentioned the need for a straightforward amendment to the Olympic charter that would allow winter sports to be eligible for inclusion. Being part of the IOC’s Olympic program working group, Coe is involved in evaluating the event’s size and potential crossovers with traditional sports.
Looking ahead to the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles, Coe supported the decision to move track events to the first week of the Games. He shared his excitement for the upcoming World treadmill championship, RUN X, a new event featuring a series of qualifying rounds leading to a live final next year.
Additionally, Coe highlighted the upcoming Ultimate Championships in Budapest, Hungary, scheduled for September 11-13, which will showcase elite athletes in a condensed three-day format focused on television viewership. The event aims to engage the local community through ticket sales and sponsorships, emphasizing the importance of local support for its success.