Kenya has formally submitted its bid to host the 2029 World Athletics Championships, aiming to become the first African country to stage the sport’s premier global event.
Nairobi is competing against bids from London, Rome and Munich, with World Athletics expected to announce its decision next month. Athletics Kenya says its proposal has strong government backing and offers a convincing opportunity to bring the championships to Africa for the first time.
The Kenyan government has pledged full support for the project, including the organisational structure, security arrangements and infrastructure needed to host athletes and spectators from around the world.
Kasarani Stadium Could Host Event
According to BBC Sport Africa, Kasarani Stadium in Nairobi is expected to be the main venue if Kenya wins the hosting rights. The stadium has a capacity of approximately 48,000 spectators.
Kenya has a particularly strong athletics heritage, with its athletes enjoying major success in middle- and long-distance events. The country has won 72 World Championship gold medals and 38 Olympic gold medals.
Kenyans currently hold 17 world records across track and road disciplines, including records in both the men’s and women’s marathon events.
Kenya Builds on Athletics Tradition
Kenya’s recent international performances also strengthen its case. At last year’s World Championships in Tokyo, the Kenyan team finished second in the overall medal standings after collecting 11 medals, including seven golds.
The country has previously hosted several major international athletics competitions. Mombasa staged the 2007 World Cross Country Championships, while Nairobi hosted the World Under-18 Championships in 2017 and the World U20 Championships in 2021.
Nairobi also hosted the African Athletics Championships in 2010 at Nyayo National Stadium.
Kenya Seeks Another Major Sporting Event
Kenya previously submitted an unsuccessful bid to host the 2025 World Championships. Securing the 2029 edition would therefore represent a major development for the country’s ambitions to host more international sporting events.
The East African nation is also preparing for another major tournament, as Kenya will co-host next year’s Africa Cup of Nations alongside Tanzania and Uganda.
Africa has already taken another step onto the World Athletics hosting stage this year. Botswana became the first African country to host the World Athletics Relays when Gaborone staged the competition in May.
With its deep athletics tradition, existing infrastructure and government backing, Kenya believes its latest bid can finally bring the World Athletics Championships to Africa.