Athletics: Long jump trial planned to eliminate foul jumps, says CEO

World Athletics is contemplating a significant change in the way long jump take-offs are measured, potentially replacing the traditional wooden board with a designated "take-off zone."

Under this proposed format, a no-jump will be called if the athlete's foot crosses the line of this zone. The distance of the jump will be measured from the point of take-off to the landing spot in the pit, adding a new layer of precision and excitement to the competition.

World Athletics CEO Jon Ridgeon shared insights into this potential adaptation, emphasizing the aim to minimize the number of nullified jumps caused by overstepping the board. He highlighted that about one-third of jumps at the 2023 World Championships were disqualified due to this issue, which he deemed inefficient and counterproductive.


To address these concerns, the organization is exploring the implementation of a take-off zone, seeking to streamline the process and provide instant results to enhance the overall experience for athletes and spectators alike.

While acknowledging potential resistance to change, Ridgeon stressed the importance of testing the new system rigorously with elite athletes to ensure its effectiveness and fairness. He emphasized that any modifications would be carefully evaluated and implemented only if proven beneficial through extensive testing.

Additionally, Ridgeon outlined plans for an annual global event in athletics, aiming to provide consistency and excitement in the sport's calendar during years without major championships like the World Championships or Olympics. This initiative seeks to maintain a continuous spotlight on athletics, similar to other major sports like tennis and golf, ensuring sustained interest and engagement from fans worldwide.