Lord Coe reveals radical plan to award ALL Olympic medallists with prize money if he becomes IOC president - and explains why amid fears of violating the Games 'philosophy' from

Lord Coe's Revolutionary Proposal: Prize Money for All Olympic Medalists

A Bold Vision for the Future of the Games

In a groundbreaking move that challenges the traditional philosophy of the Olympic Games, Lord Sebastian Coe, the former Olympic champion and current president of World Athletics, has proposed a radical plan to award prize money to all Olympic medalists.

Redefining Amateurism in the Modern Era

The Olympic Games have long been associated with the ideals of amateurism, where athletes compete for the glory of their nations rather than financial gain. However, Lord Coe argues that this concept is outdated in today's professionalized sporting landscape.

"The world has changed since the days when athletes were entirely amateur," said Lord Coe. "We need to acknowledge the realities of modern sport and ensure that our athletes are fairly compensated for their extraordinary achievements."

Arguments in Favor of Prize Money

Lord Coe believes that prize money would:

Recognize the sacrifices and dedication of athletes
Provide financial security for athletes beyond their competitive careers
Address the growing trend of athletes turning to professional leagues

Addressing Concerns About the Olympic "Spirit"

Critics of Lord Coe's proposal argue that prize money would undermine the integrity of the Games and diminish their amateur ethos.

Lord Coe acknowledges these concerns but insists that prize money can coexist with the spirit of the Olympics.

"The essence of the Games is not about money, but about human achievement and striving for excellence," he said. "Prize money can simply be a way to show appreciation for the remarkable feats these athletes accomplish."

International Olympic Committee's Response

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has not yet officially endorsed Lord Coe's proposal, but it has indicated a willingness to consider the idea.

IOC President Thomas Bach said: "We always welcome new ideas and proposals that aim to improve the Olympic Games. We will carefully review Lord Coe's proposal and consult with stakeholders before making any decisions."

Conclusion

Lord Coe's proposal to award prize money to all Olympic medalists is a bold and innovative idea that has the potential to reshape the future of the Games.

While the proposal has its detractors, it is worth considering the arguments in favor of it. Prize money could provide much-needed financial support for athletes, address the issue of professionalization, and potentially enhance the overall appeal of the Olympic Games.