American sprint queen Sha’Carri Richardson is stepping into a bold new chapter, one that stretches far beyond medals, podiums, or Olympic records. In 2025, Richardson isn’t just chasing glory on the track. She’s chasing change.
At the heart of this mission is ATHLOS, a trailblazing initiative founded by tech entrepreneur Alexis Ohanian to combat the financial and structural inequalities faced by women in sports. After a successful debut season fronted by Olympic medalist Gabby Thomas, ATHLOS is gearing up for its next big leap.
Sha’Carri Richardson has signed on as a founding owner-advisor, joining a powerhouse roster that includes fellow U.S. track stars Tara Davis-Woodhall and Gabby Thomas. Together, these athletes aren’t just lending their names. They’re shaping the league from the inside out, ensuring that the next generation of female athletes finds a sport built on equity, opportunity, and athlete-centered leadership.
“A Monumental Step” for the Sport
In a video posted by ATHLOS on X (Formerly Twitter), Richardson spoke candidly about her new role.
“This 2025 season, I’m excited to continue to push the limits on what it is that I can do. Being at the forefront of a monumental step in changing the sport, I feel like it’s a responsibility that I take very seriously.”
For Sha’Carri Richardson, ATHLOS isn’t just a league, it’s a movement. We built a platform to amplify athlete voices, ensure fair financial returns, and celebrate individuality in track and field culture.
“There’s no image you have to obtain,” she said.
“Nothing, just hard work, determination, and having a lot of fun.”
Sha’Carri Richardson has shown a spirit that matches her vision since her global rise.
Building a League by Athletes, for Athletes
The ATHLOS model is as groundbreaking as its founding athletes. At its first event in New York, the league featured 35 competitors and a $500,000 prize purse, with a portion of proceeds going directly back to the athletes themselves. Another marquee event is already slated for October at Icahn Stadium in New York City.
Alexis Ohanian emphasized the importance of athlete involvement from the start.
“We were focused on bringing them into the league as founding owners to ensure we’re building a league that our athletes will love.”
That means real equity. Real influence. And real opportunities to reshape the business and culture of track and field, from pay structures to athlete wellness to media narratives.
For Sha’Carri Richardson, this moment marks a turning point. No longer content to simply dominate the track, she’s stepping into leadership, crafting a space where future stars can shine on their own terms.
“I am honored to continue to be a part of something that the next generation will carry the torch for — knowing that nothing can stop them,” she reflected.
