BIRMINGHAM, England – Olympic silver medalist Matt Hudson-Smith has expressed uncertainty about whether he has received payments owed to him by Grand Slam Track, the league that declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection late last year. Hudson-Smith, a two-time European champion in the 400 meters, made his remarks during a press conference ahead of the European championships on Sunday.
Hudson-Smith Addresses Payment Concerns
During the event, Hudson-Smith referred to his inability to recall the specifics of his payments, saying, “I have a memory like a fish, so I can’t remember what’s going on.” His comments were made in relation to the challenges facing athletes involved with Grand Slam Track, which was established by four-time Olympic champion Michael Johnson to provide salaries and appearance fees for competing in a four-event circuit.
The league’s operations, however, have been severely impacted since it canceled its final scheduled meet in Los Angeles last June. A January filing in U.S. Bankruptcy Court in Delaware indicated that Hudson-Smith is owed $147,500, part of a larger sum owed to over 300 individuals and entities, totaling approximately $40 million.
Hudson-Smith acknowledged that his focus this year has primarily been on the European championships, stating, “I don’t know if I’ve been paid, to be honest with you, and you can quote that.” The uncertainty regarding payments has raised broader concerns among athletes relying on the financial support from Grand Slam Track.
In an interview with a media outlet, Johnson claimed that he has been working throughout the year to resolve payment issues for athletes, stating, “Everybody’s been paid — $11 million for three track meets — more money than has ever been paid to track athletes to compete.” However, it was noted that some of the funds may still be held in escrow and awaiting distribution.
Other athletes have voiced their own concerns regarding delayed payments, with some indicating that funds were critical for their everyday expenses. Eric Edwards Jr., a hurdler also mentioned in the bankruptcy filing, remarked earlier in the year how the owed money is essential for covering necessities such as rent.
As the situation unfolds, Hudson-Smith’s statements highlight the financial difficulties currently affecting many athletes involved with Grand Slam Track.
Why It Matters
The ongoing financial issues within Grand Slam Track not only impact individual athletes like Hudson-Smith but also raise questions about the viability of leagues structured around providing formal financial support to athletes. The uncertainty surrounding payments can affect athletes’ performance and commitment, illustrating the larger challenges in professional sports management.