The Real Science of Sport Podcast Tokyo 2025: Preview Show with Sean Ingle
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Sep 10, 2025 Sean Ingle, Chief Sports Writer at The Guardian, shares his expertise on the upcoming Tokyo 2025 World Athletics Championships. He discusses the potential pitfalls of the season's extended schedule for athletes and the overall health of the sport. Ingle highlights key rivalries, particularly in the sprint events, and emphasizes the need for innovative marketing strategies to attract younger fans. They also delve into the complexities of gender testing in athletics and the dynamic landscape of competition, all while preparing for an exciting week of athletics ahead.
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Late-Season Championships Have Trade-Offs
- World Athletics moved the World Championships to the end of the season to create a crescendo and avoid summer heat.
- That risks athlete overtraining and reduced public attention amid competing sports calendars.
Scheduling Forces Athlete Trade-Offs
- The extended season forces athletes to choose or compromise between Diamond League, nationals and Worlds.
- That dilution pressures meet organisers and may reduce quality at some events.
Sprints: Lyles, Injuries And New Teen Sensation
- Sean relayed a sprint coach's view that injuries and limited prep may affect Lyles across two events, especially the 200m.
- He noted emerging names like Gout Gout will attract big media interest despite long odds.