The British sprinter is aiming for a more successful 2025 season after a challenging year, as he joins Michael Johnson’s ground-breaking new event
Zharnel Hughes has signed up to compete in Grand Slam Track.
The league, set to debut in April 2025, will feature Hughes in all four of its Slam events, marking the start of an exciting year for himself and the sport.
The 29-year-old had a remarkable 2023 season, during which he shattered two longstanding British records. At the New York Grand Prix, he clocked a blistering 9.83 in the 100m, breaking Linford Christie’s 30-year-old national record by just 0.04 seconds.
A month later, at the London Diamond League, Hughes further demonstrated his speed by setting a new British 200m record with a time of 19.73, surpassing the mark previously held by John Regis.
Hughes’ success extended to the World Championships in Budapest, where he earned a bronze medal, adding to his growing list of achievements.
However, 2024 has presented more challenges for the sprinter. A grade-one hamstring tear forced to pull out of the European Championships in June, which is an event he has historically dominated, securing gold medals in the 100m, 200m, and 4x100m relay (twice).
Hughes’ injury also impacted his preparations for the Paris Olympics, where, despite not being fully fit, he made it to the 100m semi-finals – though he had hoped for more. The injury also saw him withdraw from the 200m.
Great Britain 4x100m team (Getty)
The Brit, who is also a qualified pilot, found redemption towards the end of the Games, securing a bronze medal in the 4x100m relay with teammates Louie Hinchliffe, Jeremiah Azu, and Nethaneel Mitchell-Blake.
Now fully recovered and back in Jamaica, Hughes is eager to start the 2025 as strong as possible. The first Grand Slam event will start in Kingston, Jamaica, from April 4-6. The league will then travel to Miami, Philadelphia and Los Angeles.
Grand Slam Track promises to be a unique competition, with Racers having to compete in all four Slams and receive an annual base compensation for competing in each one, as well as being eligible for full prize money.
“The future of our sport is bright, and with the global popularity of track, I think now is the right time to join Grand Slam Track,” says Hughes.
At Grand Slam Track, there will be 48 Racers as well as Challengers. Racers will be assigned to compete in one of the following categories and will all race in two events during each…
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