The Rome Diamond League, also known as the Golden Gala, is one of the crown jewels of the annual World Athletics calendar. As the event returns in 2025, anticipation is high for what promises to be a thrilling showdown of elite track and field competition. With the final start lists now officially released, fans and analysts alike are gearing up for a night of top-tier performances under the Roman sky.
Star-Studded Lineup in the Sprints
The men’s 100 meters will be a highlight, featuring reigning Olympic champion Marcell Jacobs competing on home soil. He’ll go up against American sprint sensation Christian Coleman and Africa’s rising star Ferdinand Omanyala. The women’s 100m also brings fireworks, with Jamaica’s Shericka Jackson, fresh off a dominant 2024 season, facing off against Dina Asher-Smith and the USA’s Sha’Carri Richardson. With sub-11 second performances almost guaranteed, this race could deliver one of the fastest times of the season.
Middle-Distance Mayhem
In the men’s 1500 meters, all eyes will be on Jakob Ingebrigtsen, who continues to redefine middle-distance running. He will be joined by Kenya’s Timothy Cheruiyot and Great Britain’s Josh Kerr, creating a rematch of world championship caliber. On the women’s side, Faith Kipyegon headlines the 1500m start list, where she’ll be challenged by Ethiopia’s Gudaf Tsegay and Ireland’s Ciara Mageean.
Hurdles and High Drama
The 400m hurdles events are packed with elite talent. Norway’s Karsten Warholm leads the men’s field, aiming to edge closer to his own world record. The USA’s Rai Benjamin and Brazil’s Alison dos Santos will offer stiff competition. In the women’s event, Femke Bol is the clear favorite, though Jamaica’s Rushell Clayton and American Shamier Little could shake up the podium.
Meanwhile, Grant Holloway tops the men’s 110m hurdles lineup, with Jamaica’s Rasheed Broadbell and France’s Sasha Zhoya in pursuit. The women’s 100m hurdles will feature Nigeria’s Tobi Amusan and Puerto Rico’s Jasmine Camacho-Quinn, both of whom have dominated the circuit in recent years.
Field Events: Strength Meets Precision
In the field events, the men’s pole vault will see world record holder Armand Duplantis look to clear new heights against a deep field including KC Lightfoot and Renaud Lavillenie. The women’s high jump features Yaroslava Mahuchikh and Nicola Olyslagers in what promises to be a closely contested battle.
The shot put circle will be stacked, with Ryan Crouser continuing his phenomenal form in the men’s event. For the women, Chase Jackson (née Ealey) leads a competitive lineup. The discus, long jump, and triple jump events also feature strong international representation, reinforcing the global appeal of the Diamond League.
Conclusion
With a mix of Olympic champions, world record holders, and breakout stars, the Rome Diamond League Golden Gala promises an unforgettable night of athletics. The final start lists suggest that nearly every event could produce season-leading performances, personal bests, and possibly even new records. As the Eternal City prepares to host one of the most prestigious meets of the season, fans worldwide can expect a spectacular showcase of athletic excellence.
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