Athletics is renewed: changes in the long jump for the future

Athletics adapts to the new times: this is how changes in the long jump are being studied Exactly three years ago, during the Spanish Indoor Athletics Championships, athlete María Vicente experienced an unjust decision by the judges that led her to break down in tears after her long jump was disqualified in the final. This incident sparked a wave of criticism and prompted the President of the Spanish Athletics Federation (RFEA), Raúl Chapado, to publicly apologize for the mistake made. The controversy generated by this episode did not go unnoticed internationally, and the Vice President of World Athletics, John Ridgeon, addressed it on the Anything by Footy podcast. Ridgeon acknowledged that the organization is working to adapt to the new times, aiming to make certain events, such as the long jump, more attractive and popular. In this regard, tests and trials are being conducted in the discipline of long jump to evaluate possible changes that could enhance the experience for both competitors and spectators. These initiatives seek to modernize and energize athletics, while maintaining the essence and excitement of the discipline, but adapting it to current demands and expectations. Collaboration among different sports organizations, both nationally and internationally, is essential to ensure transparency and fairness in athletics competitions. The commitment of sports authorities to review and improve processes and regulations is crucial to uphold the integrity and prestige of this iconic sport. The evolution of athletics towards greater modernization and adaptation to current times is a constant challenge, but necessary to ensure its relevance and appeal in a constantly changing world. Changes in the long jump are just the beginning of a series of transformations that will help strengthen and enrich the practice of this captivating and demanding discipline.