**Nairobi to Host World Athletics Championships in 2029**
Nairobi, Kenya, has been selected to host the World Athletics Championships in 2029, marking a significant milestone as it becomes the first African city to hold the prestigious event. The announcement was made by World Athletics following a council meeting in Budapest, where the organization also confirmed that Munich will host the 2031 championships.
The decision to award Nairobi the 2029 championships came after a competitive bidding process that included proposals from London, Munich, and Rome. World Athletics President Sebastian Coe highlighted the quality of the bids, stating, "We were fortunate to have four outstanding bids for 2029 and 2031, and this was not an easy decision for the Council."
Kenya has a rich history in athletics and has previously hosted several international competitions, including the World Cross Country Championships in Mombasa in 2007 and the World Under-20 Championships in Nairobi in 2021. The nation also hosted the World Under-18 Championships in 2017 and the African Athletics Championships in 2010. This experience has contributed to Nairobi's growing reputation as a capable host for major athletic events.
Coe emphasized the importance of bringing the World Athletics Championships to Africa, stating, "Taking our championships to Africa for the first time will be historic." He noted that Nairobi's bid was compelling and emotional, reflecting the city's commitment to developing athletics in Kenya and across the continent. "This is their moment to supercharge the development of our sport in Kenya and across Africa, leaving a compelling legacy that inspires a continent," he added.
The successful bid was also supported by the ongoing renovations at the Kasarani Stadium, which is currently undergoing a complete overhaul in preparation for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in 2027. Coe mentioned that the Nairobi team learned from their previous bid for the 2025 championships and returned with a stronger proposal, showcasing their readiness to host the world stage.
As the host city for the 2029 World Athletics Championships, Nairobi is expected to provide a platform for athletes from around the world to compete at the highest level, while also fostering local talent and inspiring future generations of athletes in Africa. The event is anticipated to leave a lasting impact on the sporting landscape of the continent.
With the 2027 championships already awarded to Beijing, the upcoming events will span across Asia, Africa, and Europe, showcasing the global nature of athletics. Coe's remarks underscore the significance of this decision, stating, "This council decision today means we’re able to deliver our World Athletics Championships in Asia, Africa, and Europe over its next three editions."
The 2029 World Athletics Championships in Nairobi is poised to be a landmark event, celebrating the rich athletic heritage of Kenya and providing a unique opportunity for the continent to shine on the world stage. As preparations begin, the focus will be on creating an unforgettable experience for athletes and fans alike, while laying the groundwork for the future of athletics in Africa.