American track and field star Noah Lyles has set his sights on a new world record for the 2026 season. After capping off a brilliant 2025 season at the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo, Lyles began this season with indoor competitions like the USA Indoor Championships. He is now set to begin his outdoor season.
Noah Lyles Eyes 150m World Record in 2026 Outdoor Season
Earlier this month, Lyles revealed his outdoor season plans, setting the stage for a global sprinting tour. He will electrify crowds at the Seiko Golden Grand Prix in Tokyo on May 17 and the Diamond League meets in Rome and Paris in June, lining up for the 100-meter dash at each stop.
In a post on Threads, Lyles has now seemingly confirmed his appearance at the 2026 Ostrava Golden Spike on June 16, where he will be running in the 150-meter event. He captioned the post: “What’s the world record in the 150m again 🤔”
This message from Lyles comes just days after Jamaican sprinter Kishane Thompson set a new world best in the men’s 150-meter event on a circular track, clocking a time of 14.92 seconds (+1.3) at the 2026 Miramar Invitational. While Lyles has never held an outdoor world record, he does hold the American record in the 200-meter dash as well as recording a personal-best time of 9.79 seconds in the 100-meter dash.
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Lyles has spoken about his mission to elevate track and field by sparking fierce rivalries and connecting with fans. With excitement mounting for his Czech Republic appearance, he is clearly turning those words into action. He last faced off against Thompson at the 2024 Olympic Games, where he defeated him by 0.005 seconds to win gold.
How Noah Lyles Plans to Grow the Popularity of Track and Field
Lyles first made his breakthrough in track and field at the 2014 Youth Olympics in China, where he won gold in the 200-meter dash, establishing himself as one of the most exciting talents in the nation. Following this, he turned pro and won his first senior Diamond League title in the 200-meter dash at Shanghai in 2017.
In a recent interview on “The Athletic Show,” Lyles discussed why he wants the responsibility of taking track and field to a more global scale. “I want to perform, just as much as any of these other athletes, on the biggest stages,” Lyles said. “If I can elevate the level that we’re at, then those opportunities start to arrive. We’re doing fun, cool things over here, too. Come tap in before it gets too hot.”
During the interview, Lyles reflected on how team sports like basketball and football differ from individual pursuits. He also shared how his relationship with his wife, Junelle Bromfield, has reshaped his outlook on the sport.
