The world track and field governing body says it will award 50,000 dollars to athletes and teams winning gold medals in the 48 athletics events at the upcoming Paris Olympics.

World Athletics says it will be the first international federation to award prize money at an Olympic Games.

The organization says the total of 2.4 million dollars to be disbursed is separate from the allocation provided by the International Olympic Committee every four years.

World Athletics says that in relay events, the 50,000 dollars will be given to teams.

It also says it plans to expand the program to cover silver and bronze medal winners in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.

World Athletics President Sebastian Coe said the introduction of prize money underscores the organization's commitment to empowering the athletes and recognizing the "critical role" they play in the success of any Olympic Games.