Exclusive: Plans for city-based, private equity-backed athletics league revealed
An audacious new athletics league that will see city franchises, road running and stakes sold to competitors is seeking funding to the tune of seven figures ahead of a 2027 launch, City AM can reveal. Former runner Florian Lussy is spearheading the as yet unnamed project – under his R-evo Ventures firm – which will [...]
A novel athletics league, spearheaded by former runner Florian Lussy under the banner of R-evo Ventures, is set to launch in 2027 with city-based franchises and private equity backing. The league aims to revolutionize the sport by incorporating road running, stakes sales, and sponsorships. Lussy envisions an entertainment-driven format that could compete with popular sports like SailGP and Formula 1, drawing in a younger demographic of 25-year-olds.
The league plans to establish teams across Europe initially, with the possibility of global expansion. Races will take place on open streets, with a focus on duration rather than distance, and the goal is to move away from traditional track-based athletics. While London is a desired host city for the inaugural season, Lussy acknowledges that a full calendar may not be achievable.
The league's structure aims to build trust among athletes by involving them in decision-making processes, ensuring they have a stake in the franchises. Lussy emphasizes that the racing format will be less taxing on the athletes' bodies compared to traditional competitions, potentially attracting a broader range of participants, including social media runners and sub-elite athletes.
The league is already in discussions with prominent athletes and has a waiting list of 80 interested athletes.
Written by urgent.news from City AM's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
