Ultimate Legend: Usain Bolt bags another honorary role with World Athletics

Almost a decade after retirement, track icon Usain Bolt is still getting his recognition. This time, an honorary role as an 'Ultimate Legend' with World Athletics.

The Jamaican superstar was announced as the 'Ultimate Legend’, as excitement continues to build ahead of the first edition of the 2026 World Athletics Ultimate Championship in Budapest.

According to World Athletics' press release, Bolt will help to take the sport to another level, as he did during an incredible career that saw him break multiple world records, claim 19 senior global titles, and provide countless iconic moments on the track.

In his role as the one and only Ultimate Legend, he will collaborate with World Athletics in the promotion of the new global season-ending championship that will see the world’s top-ranked track and field athletes compete head-to-head to decide who is truly the best on the planet.

“The idea behind the World Athletics Ultimate Championship is brilliant: the absolute best of the best facing off against each other – all the major global stars, big money, even bigger personalities, no excuses – to see who gets bragging rights as the Ultimate Champion. Let’s just say I would have loved to be competing in this box-office championship,” said Bolt.

“I’m honoured to take on the role of Ultimate Legend to help spread the word, as athletics remains a huge part of my life. I saw our sport go through many changes during my time on the track, and it’s important that athletics continues to innovate. This new global championship will help to showcase and grow track and field and its incredible stars.”

This marks the first time that Bolt has stepped into such an athletics role, as he uses his passion for and status within the sport to promote the new event to the world.

The Ultimate Championship is tagged as the next major global flagship outdoor track and field championship after the Tokyo 2025 World Athletics Championships, set for September 13 to 21.