(World Athletics President Sebastian Coe. Photo by Vanguard News)
Nairobi has won the right to host the 2029 World Athletics Championships, becoming the first African city to stage the event.
The Kenyan capital beat out London, Munich and Rome in a competitive bidding process.
World Athletics President Sebastian Coe said the decision was difficult given the strength of all four bids, but Nairobi presented a compelling case that showed it was the right time for the championships to come to Africa.
Athletics runs deep in Kenya’s culture, particularly middle-distance running.
The country has produced world-class athletes like Faith Kipyegon who have shaped the sport’s history.
Kenyan fans are known for their extraordinary passion for track and field, making it an ideal host.
Nairobi previously failed to win the 2025 championships but learned from that experience and returned with a stronger bid.
The city has hosted several major athletics events, including the 2010 African Athletics Championships and world junior championships in 2017 and 2021.
The Kasarani Stadium is also undergoing renovation to prepare for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations, so it will be ready for the world championships.
Munich will host the 2031 championships.
The German city has a proven track record hosting major athletics events and has a strong following for the sport.
Beijing is already set to host in 2027.
World Athletics President Coe said hosting three consecutive championships outside Europe is part of the organisation’s responsibility to grow the sport globally, though he acknowledged Europe remains the heartland of track and field.