Olympic icon Michael Johnson will not be part of the BBC team this year due to ongoing controversies related to his failed Grand Slam Track venture. Johnson, 58, has been a key figure in BBC’s athletics coverage since 2001, mainly serving as an analyst.
The four-time Olympic gold medalist is excluded from the 2026 lineup after facing allegations in a US legal document of paying himself $500,000 just before the collapse of Grand Slam Track. The project refuted the claims, stating that the payment was a reimbursement for personal expenses covered by Johnson.
During the 2025 World Athletics Championships in Tokyo, Johnson was absent from the BBC coverage. His spokesperson mentioned that he had other commitments but expressed interest in collaborating with the BBC in the future.
According to a report by The Independent, the BBC does not intend to engage Johnson in their athletics coverage this year. Johnson’s spokesperson clarified that it was his choice not to continue working with the BBC after the Paris 2024 Games.
Johnson’s focus shifted to the Grand Slam Track project, leading him to decline the BBC contract renewal after the Olympics. The BBC respected his decision, acknowledging his dedication to the project and expressing gratitude for their longstanding partnership.
As a result, Johnson will not participate in the upcoming Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, where the BBC will share broadcasting rights with TNT Sports instead of being the lead broadcaster. Grand Slam Track, initiated by Johnson to showcase top track stars and offer substantial prize money, faced financial challenges resulting in bankruptcy and cancellation of its final event in Los Angeles.
Allegations emerged that Johnson transferred a substantial amount to himself when the project was struggling financially, despite owing athletes and vendors significant sums. Reports state that Johnson prioritized his payment over others, despite being aware of the project’s financial instability.
The spokesperson for Grand Slam Track refuted the claims, emphasizing that Johnson had advanced significant funds for operational costs, with only a portion reimbursed. The company criticized the allegations as misleading and aimed at tarnishing Johnson’s and the company’s reputation.
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