Creating ONE Team for Long-Term Excellence and Innovation in American Track and Field
Indianapolis, IN – October 30, 2024 — USA Track & Field (USATF) and the United States Olympic & Paralympic Committee (USOPC) are excited to announce that, beginning January 1, 2025, the U.S. Paralympics Track & Field program will become part of USATF. This integration represents a historic step forward, uniting all U.S. track and field athletes under one organization to provide the highest standard of support, resources, and innovation. This transition is founded on the belief that an integrated track and field program best positions athletes – both Paralympic and Olympic – for long-term, sustained competitive success. Following an extraordinary performance at the Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games, where Team USA's track and field athletes shined on the world stage and brought home numerous medals, this integration amplifies the commitment to excellence and team unity that makes U.S. athletes a global force in the sport. USATF, the national governing body for track and field, cross country, and road running, will now provide a singular, unified home for all elite U.S. track and field athletes. “With the USOPC and USATF joining forces for our Paralympics Track & Field National Team and development programs, we are setting the stage for unprecedented opportunity and development,” said USOPC CEO Sarah Hirshland. “We’ve committed to working toward this model of integration, because we know it will allow Para athletes to fully access a powerhouse of resources, support and training as they pursue excellence and represent Team USA.” Beginning in January 2025, USATF will absorb the U.S. Paralympic National Team athletes, creating a streamlined experience that will benefit athletes in all stages of their careers. From the track to the training facility, Para athletes will now have access to the same level of support and attention as other elite U.S. track and field athletes. “This is an incredible moment for our sport,” said Max Siegel, CEO of USATF. “USATF has a strong commitment to providing inclusive and comprehensive support, and by uniting our Olympic and Paralympic programs, we are setting the standard for what an integrated sports program can achieve. We believe the benefits of being one team will drive success on and off the field of play.” For athletes, this integration represents not just a new chapter, but a long-overdue affirmation of belonging. “This change means so much to me and to the entire Para track and field community,” shared Hunter Woodhall, three-time Paralympian and Paralympic gold medalist. “Becoming part of one team with USATF is the right next step for Paralympic track and field and for Team USA, and it’s incredibly exciting to see the investment, dedication, and future we’re building together.” Building on the momentum and achievement from both Olympic and Paralympic Games at Paris 2024, USATF builds its growth of the sport with the mission of achieving continued success for athletes representing Team USA. This transition highlights USATF’s commitment to a thriving and inclusive track and field community, and to delivering competitive excellence on the world stage. Photo Credit: Joe Kusumoto/USOPC