The American sprinters will race each other on four occasions next season at Michael Johnson’s new track league
Olympic 200m silver medallist Kenny Bednarek and 100m bronze medalist Fred Kerley have signed on as Grand Slam Track Racers for 2025.
The new league, founded by Michael Johnson, will host four annual Slams in major cities around the world. Athletes, known as ‘Racers,’ will be assigned to compete in two events during each Slam, and as celebrated sprinters, the pair are expected to compete across the 100m and 200m.
Fred kerley History
The pair join their Team USA teammates Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone, Cole Hocker, Yared Nuguse, plus Great Britain’s Josh Kerr as the first six of 48 Racers to be announced Fred Kerley.
READ MORE: Michael Johnson launches Grand Slam Track League
“This is a great day for Grand Slam Track,” said Michael Johnson, the league’s founder and Commissioner. “We’ve been saying GST is for “only the fastest,” and bringing Fred and Kenny into the fold is exemplary of that fact.
“These two electrify every time they step onto the track, and I can’t wait to see them entertain thousands of fans at each of our Slams, and millions more watching around the world. I’m delighted to add two more excellent sprinters to our roster of Racers, and am already anticipating their first appearances in Grand Slam Track next year.”
Fred Kerley (Getty)
Fred Kerley came into the spotlight at the 2017 NCAA Championships where he did the indoors/outdoor double, securing national titles in both the 400m and 4x400m at both meets.
Fred Kerley Olympic
In 2021, the 29-year-old stepped onto the Olympic stage in Tokyo, earning a silver medal in the 100m behind Italy’s Marcell Jacobs. In 2022, Fred Kerley became the 100m world champion in Eugene where he clocked a new personal best of 9.76.
Most recently, Fred Kerley added a bronze to his collection in the 100m at the Paris Olympic Games, with Team USA teammate Noah Lyles taking gold and Jamaica’s Kishane Thompson securing silver.
Fred Kerley is the only person in history to run sub-9.80 seconds in the 100m, sub-19.80 seconds in the 200m, and sub-43.80 seconds in the 400m.
“When I first heard about Grand Slam Track, I knew it was something I wanted to be part of,” said Fred Kerley. “I love competing and think the fans will really enjoy this new Track format.
“The fans will get to see the best of the best race against each other regularly and we have a platform to showcase our talents and continue building our fanbase all around the world. I’m excited to be part of Grand Slam Track.”
Kenny Bednarek (Getty)
Kenny Bednarek History
Bednarek, meanwhile, is a two-time Olympic silver medallist, and 2022 world runner up, in the 200m.
Having began his career as a 400m runner, the 25-year-old transitioned to focus on the 200m, and has since ran a personal best of 19.59 at the 2024 US Olympic Trials in Eugene, Oregon.
Bednarek followed that up with his stellar performance in Paris, finishing ahead of Noah Lyles to claim silver.
“The Grand Slam League is a great initiative by Michael Johnson,” said Bednarek. “It’s an incredible opportunity to compete at the highest level with some of the best athletes in the sport.
“I love the head to head concept, emphasis on storytelling, showcasing personalities and a good opportunity for athletes to feature their talent. This league brings a fresh perspective to track and field.
“I’m looking forward to testing my limits, improving my performance, and putting on a show for the fans. It’s going to be exciting for all those watching and participating.”
Simone Inzaghi: The Art of Game Strategy