Athletes representing GB and the USA will go head-to-head in a new competition to be held at London Stadium next summer.
The competition, called ‘The Meet’, will see top athletes from the two countries compete across nine events in a two-hour window at the London Stadium on July the 21st.
The format of the event will be released early next year, but it is understood that the event will feature “traditional” athletics disciplines rather than those included in Athletics Australia’s ‘Nitro Athletics’, such as the elimination mile and javelin targets.
Individuals will pick up points for their respective countries and the country with the most points will win the meet. ‘The Meet’ will be one of two major athletics events held at the London Stadium in 2018, alongside the Anniversary Games.
“This promises to be one of the biggest events in athletics in 2018,” said Niels de Vos, chief executive of British Athletics.
Following August’s suspenseful World Championships, the US topped the medal table with Britain coming in sixth place. Britain have never finished above the US in the IAAF World Championships.
Former UEL student and 4X100 world champion, Adam Gemili, said, “We have a great sporting rivalry and look forward to seeing which nation comes out strongest.”
British Athletics announced the events that will feature are “a blend of running, jumping, hurdles and relay events.” They promise a “fast-paced format designed to appeal to new audiences.”
However, some have been critical of the decision not to include throws.
“A blend of running, jumping, hurdles and relay events” I think there is one missing…..? https://t.co/V4WPhV7x3E
— Sophie Hitchon (@SophieHitchon) August 16, 2017
