The International Olympic Committee set up a $10,000 grant program for athletes called the “Fit for the Future Olympian Grant” last Wednesday.  Under the new program, Olympians beginning with the recent Milano Cortina Games will be eligible to receive the money, as long as they have not com mitted a violation of the IOC’s doping rules, Code of Ethics, Conditions of Participation or Olympic Charter.  In creating the program, the IOC said they want to “support the sporting career or the career transition of Olympians.” The IOC is setting aside $140 million from each Olympiad, which is the period of four years between Games. There were 2,842 athletes at the Milano Cortina Games and about 10,500 at the Paris Games in 2024.  “This grant will be available to every Olympian, not just medal winners or athletes from certain countries,” said Chair of the IOC Athletes’ Commission and basketball legend Pau Gasol. “Because while every athlete’s journey is different, every Olympian has made sacrifices to reach the Olympic stage; years of dedication, hard work and believing in a dream. This is not prize money. This is about recognizing the journey and the commitment it takes to become an Olympian.” Gasol retired in the fall of 2021, shortly after competing in his fifth Olympics with Spain. He won three Olympic medals during his time in the red and yellow. Gasol said the grant further integrates athletes into the fabric of the Games.  “It has been a topic of conversation for many years, and I am extremely proud that we are now able to do this,” IOC President Kirsty Coventry said. The IOC is working to set up an application and delivery system for the money, which they hope to have running toward the end of this year. They hope the first payments to the Milano Cortina Olympians will be sent out early in 2027.  “I saw those actually just the other day, I got an email about those,” Park City freeskier and Milano Cortina silver medalist Alex Hall said. “That’s super cool that athletes can apply for those and try to get additional funding and support for travel and whatnot.” Hall said similar grants in the past have been hard to get for he and other U.S. skiers because the team takes care of most of their travel and competition expenses.  “I definitely saw that news,” said Park City speed skater and Milano Cortina silver medalist Casey Dawson. “I think it’s awesome that they’re finally recognizing that athletes are in need of these financial prizes. I think athletes don’t get enough recognition as is because a lot of people don’t see that it’s people’s careers. People need to realize that they spend most of their time training and don’t have time for these careers outside.” Dawson believes the money will help ease some Olympians’ stress as they continue to pursue their dreams.  “Because you can’t do whatever you’re doing forever, whatever short-lived career you have you need to make the most of it,” Dawson said. “I think this will help for sure.” The post International Olympic Committee sets up $10,000 grant program for athletes appeared first on Park Record. ...read more read less