Modern pentathlon has taken an innovative turn ahead of the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games. In an exclusive chat with Forbes, Rob Stull, president of the International Modern Pentathlon Union (UIPM), explained how the addition of an obstacle course has transformed the perception of the sport, bringing it to a new generation of fans.
“This is a new beginning for modern pentathlon. Our athletes are the most versatile in the Games, and this new discipline adds a 21st century flavor that connects with today’s audience,” Stull told the business outlet.
From horses to Obstacle racing
Obstacle racing has replaced equestrian jumping as one of the five events in the modern pentathlon, which retains fencing, swimming, running and shooting. According to Stull, this decision is in response to several factors, including the high costs of transporting horses and the need to appeal to a wider audience. “The International Olympic Committee (IOC) didn’t force us to choose obstacles, but they made it clear to us that we needed to innovate. Equestrian show jumping was a challenge for us and didn’t fit the cost model going forward.”
The new event, a 70-meter course with eight obstacles, debuted at this year’s World Cup, where athletes completed the course in just 25-35 seconds. “The second you say ‘ninja,’ people understand what you’re talking about,” Stull commented, referencing the global popularity of the television show Ninja Warrior.
A prominent place on the Los Angeles 2028 calendar
Modern pentathlon has secured a prime spot on the Los Angeles 2028 calendar, with its two medals up for grabs during the first four days of the Games. “That will help us a lot,” Stull noted. “We’ll have an extra day of broadcasting, and we’ll be around urban sports like BMX and 3×3 basketball. We’re with the popular ‘kids.’” This change is significant, as in previous editions the modern pentathlon was held on the last days of the Games, competing for attention with events such as the men’s basketball final. “It’s a breakthrough for us,” Stull added.
While the new format has been well received, Stull acknowledged that there is still room for tweaks before Los Angeles 2028. “No one has failed to scale the final wall in competition, so we could raise it to make it more spectacular and exciting,” he commented. However, he stressed that these are minor details and that “the foundation for the future is already in place.”
From Pierre de Coubertin to the future
The modern pentathlon was created more than a century ago by Pierre de Coubertin, founder of the modern Olympic Games, as a test of a soldier’s skills. According to Stull, the baron would have supported this evolution: “De Coubertin would say ‘you’re welcome’. He was an innovator and would have recognized the need for change.”
With its new image and an event that combines tradition and innovation, the modern pentathlon is looking to consolidate itself as a relevant sport on the Olympic stage. “We are building the future of modern pentathlon,” Stull concluded.
