World Athletics announces new regulations for spikes

8-time Olympic gold medallist Usain Bolt can now feel more assured that his world records will remain intact following a recent announcement by World Athletics.

Track and field's world governing body on Thursday said it will put a cap of 20 millimetres on the thickness on the sole of spikes starting November 1, 2024.

Track spikes can currently measure from 20 to 25 millimetres in stack height, while the mark is 40 millimetres for road shoes. World Athletics says the time frame for implementation will give manufacturers sufficient notice.

Recent world records on the track and on the road have sparked debate over whether faster spikes are giving current athletes an unfair advantage in breaking world records.

Earlier this year, Bolt called the advancement in the technology of track spikes laughable and unfair.

Olympic champions Elaine Thompson-Herah and compatriot Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce competed in controversial spikes made by Nike when they became the two fastest living women this year.