Swedish pole vaulter Armand “Mondo” Duplantis has unveiled his favorite color in a promotional campaign for the inaugural Ultimate Championship. The two-time Olympic gold medalist recently launched “Gold,” in collaboration with World Athletics, as the official anthem for the upcoming tournament that offers a substantial prize purse of $10 million USD.
Set to take place in Budapest from September 11-13, the Ultimate Championship will feature top athletes, including Olympic, world, and Diamond League champions, across three evening sessions. Winners of individual events will receive $150,000 in prize money.
Known for his athletic prowess, the 26-year-old Duplantis has also delved into the music scene, having previously released his debut single, “Bop,” in 2025. Expressing his aspirations beyond the track, the world-record holder shared his dream of clinching a Grammy award.
Collaborating with Carl Silvergran and Oscar Chase, Duplantis co-wrote “Gold,” which was produced by Chase, according to an announcement from World Athletics. The song’s thematic essence revolves around representing something greater than oneself, reflecting the spirit of unity in both music and sports.
Accompanied by a music video shot in Budapest, featuring archival footage from Duplantis’ early career, “Gold” aims to resonate with audiences worldwide, bridging the gap between live-event spectators and fans watching remotely. Duplantis is slated to perform the anthem live at the event’s conclusion.
World Athletics President Sebastian Coe praised the initiative, emphasizing the Ultimate Championship as a platform for showcasing athletes’ talents and interests both on and off the field. The championship is set to become a biennial fixture on the sporting calendar.