NAIROBI SECURES LANDMARK 2029 WORLD ATHLETICS CHAMPIONSHIP HOSTING RIGHTS

Nairobi has been selected to host the 2029 World Athletics Championships, making Kenya the first African country to stage the senior global athletics competition. World Athletics announced the decision following a council meeting in Budapest, confirming a historic breakthrough for the continent. The championship is regarded as one of the biggest events in global track and field, bringing together elite athletes from more than 200 countries.

The decision rewards Kenya’s long-standing contribution to athletics and its growing experience in organising major international competitions. Nairobi previously hosted the World Athletics Under-18 Championships in 2017 and the World Athletics Under-20 Championships in 2021, while Mombasa staged the World Cross Country Championships in 2007. The capital has also hosted the African Athletics Championships and continues to stage the annual Kip Keino Classic, a major event on the international athletics calendar.

The 2029 championships are expected to be held at the renovated Kasarani Stadium, which is currently undergoing improvements ahead of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations. World Athletics President Sebastian Coe praised Nairobi’s bid, describing it as compelling and emotionally strong while recognising Kenya’s deep connection with the sport. The Kenyan government had provided strong backing for the bid, including commitments on infrastructure, security and the organisation of the championship.

Nairobi’s successful bid came after competition from major European cities, including London, Rome and Munich. London had been considered a strong contender because of its experience hosting major athletics events, while Rome and Munich also submitted proposals. However, World Athletics ultimately chose Nairobi for 2029, while Munich was selected to host the 2031 edition. Both championships will be staged in September, following the 2027 World Championships in Beijing, China.

The decision is expected to be celebrated as a major moment for African athletics, particularly in Kenya, which has produced numerous Olympic and world champions in distance running. Hosting the championship will allow Kenyan athletes to compete before a home crowd while giving fans across Africa the opportunity to watch the world’s leading track and field stars on the continent. The event is also expected to strengthen Nairobi’s position as an international sporting destination and open another chapter in Africa’s growing role in global athletics.