Sprinter Sam Blaskowski leaves Star Athletics over racism
25 september 2026 в 09:28
American sprinter Sam Blaskowski has found himself at the center of a scandal after old social media posts containing racial slurs resurfaced online. In a statement posted on Instagram on September 23, Blaskowski, who is 23 years old, acknowledged that nearly seven years ago he published two posts with racial slurs that he then considered a joke. He noted that these images have resurfaced and expressed regret for his words.
Blaskowski is one of the most promising young sprinters in the U.S., having set a record in the 100 meters this year with a time of 9.89 seconds, which was the fastest among white sprinters until it was surpassed by Lachlan Kennedy at the 2026 Commonwealth Games. In his statement, he emphasized that he understands why his posts cause pain and discontent among people, especially those close to him who were unaware of the situation.
The athlete also announced that he has left Star Athletics, the club where Olympians Kenny Bednarek and Melissa Jefferson-Wooden train. In a statement, the club said that Star Athletics does not support racism, discrimination, or bullying and takes this matter with utmost seriousness. The club added that after an internal review of the situation, it was decided that Blaskowski would exit the organization in accordance with their code of conduct.
Blaskowski acknowledged that he has changed significantly since he was a teenager and has come to better understand issues of racism and bias. He concluded his statement with an apology: «To everyone I hurt then and now, near and far. I hear you, I see you, and I am very sorry».
Blaskowski is one of the most promising young sprinters in the U.S., having set a record in the 100 meters this year with a time of 9.89 seconds, which was the fastest among white sprinters until it was surpassed by Lachlan Kennedy at the 2026 Commonwealth Games. In his statement, he emphasized that he understands why his posts cause pain and discontent among people, especially those close to him who were unaware of the situation.
The athlete also announced that he has left Star Athletics, the club where Olympians Kenny Bednarek and Melissa Jefferson-Wooden train. In a statement, the club said that Star Athletics does not support racism, discrimination, or bullying and takes this matter with utmost seriousness. The club added that after an internal review of the situation, it was decided that Blaskowski would exit the organization in accordance with their code of conduct.
Blaskowski acknowledged that he has changed significantly since he was a teenager and has come to better understand issues of racism and bias. He concluded his statement with an apology: «To everyone I hurt then and now, near and far. I hear you, I see you, and I am very sorry».
© Kolganov Andrey
