Coach Powell suspended over safeguarding concern

The only regular men's athletics event to have a longer standing world record than long jump is the hammer throw

Long jump world record holder Mike Powell has been suspended indefinitely over a safeguarding concern, says the Athletics Integrity Unit.

The 61-year-old American, who recently worked as a college coach in California, is barred from all activities sanctioned by World Athletics, its area associations or member federations.

He is also prohibited from attending hospitality or private access venues linked to World Athletics Series events. The AIU said the suspension could be varied on application or appeal.

Powell set the men's long jump world record of 8.95 metres at the 1991 World Championships in Tokyo.

The two-time Olympic silver medallist had been on the track and field coaching staff at Azusa Pacific University.

Marcus Dawal, the university's sports information director, said Powell was there during the 2023 season on a part-time basis and left in spring 2024 for other employment.

The AIU has not detailed what the safeguarding concern relates to.