Kenya to become first African country to host World Athletics Championships

This decision was taken during the 242nd World Athletics Council Meeting in Budapest on Monday and Tuesday this week, also adding that Munich, Germany will host the 2031 championships.

Speaking at a press conference, Coe says they are proud to host the next three editions of the championships in Asia, Africa and Europe.

“Athletics is a global sport and we are determined to connect athletes with audiences world wide making it accessible to everyone wherever they live. This council’s decision today means we  are  able  to deliver world athletics championships to Asia, Africa and Europe, over its next three editions,” Coe said. 

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Kenya have hosted the 2007 World Cross Country Championships, the World U18 Championships in 2017 and the World under-20 Championships.

Coe congratulated Kenya for going back to the drawing board after failing with their initial bid for the 2025 championships.

“Taking our championships to Africa for the first time will be historic. Nairobi has presented a compelling and emotional bid. The city has steadily built its credentials from the World U18 Championships in 2017, and the World U20 Championships in 2021,” he said.

“Having also been part of the bidding in 2025, the team understood and grasped what was required and came back with a stronger proposition and the renovated Kasarani Stadium, which is undergoing a complete overhaul ahead of the 2027 AFCON.”