Johnson set to race in Britain again

Athletics

Michael Johnson will make his first appearance in Britain for three years at the grand prix meeting in Sheffield on 29 June.

Johnson, the first man to win the 200 metres and 400m at the same Olympics, will race at the Securicor Games over the longer distance against a field which may include Jamie Baulch and Roger Black.

The American's decision comes less than a year after he was refused a place in the 400m at a meeting in London for fear of demoralising his British rivals just before the Games.

Johnson's agent, Brad Hunt, said then that Johnson would not compete in Britain again while Peter Radford remained in charge at the British Athletic Federation. The latest deal has been agreed following Radford's decision to leave the BAF.

Linford Christie, who races today in the Qatar International meeting, has re-emphasised his intention not to compete in any more major championships. "I am through with big meets," the 37-year-old former Olympic champion said. "Physically I am still strong but mentally I don't feel motivated enough."

The International Amateur Athletic Federation has defended its decision to allow the men-only meeting at Doha in the Muslim state of Qatar. "The IAAF has no plans to censure or dictate terms to countries where traditions don't allow women to take part in international competition," a spokesman said.

Qatar has tempted an international field which includes Colin Jackson and Butch Reynolds to race out of season with a budget of $2m (pounds 1.25m).