the payoff structure is actually closer to a volunteer's dilemma matrix as opposed to the prisoner's dilemma, except for circumstances where agreed lead trading takes place. At least the way I view it, the disincentive to lead (which would benefit everyone else) is such that everyone wants someone else to volunteer, and in waiting for this to happen slow paces ensue.
This is actually the main reason I enjoy 400m races. In lanes, you remove the disincentive. Thus you can see a blend of all sorts of tactics; quick out of the blocks, or a more even race, differing locations to ramp up the effort for the final charge.
If we want this practice to end in the distance races, telling coaches or athletes to cease it will be hopelessly ineffective. Unless there is some means to destroy (or neutralize) the disincentive, the practice will continue. While I have no real theories on how to do so, one I idea I have heard is dividing the prize money to reward time led, or something along those lines. In terms of qualifying races, though, this really wouldn't change anything.