Kenya bids to host 2029 World Athletics Championships

Kenya has officially submitted a bid to host the 2029 World Athletics Championships, marking a historic opportunity for the African nation to stage the prestigious event. Nairobi is competing against London, Rome, and Munich for the honor, with World Athletics expected to announce a decision next month. Athletics Kenya asserts that their bid is robust and well-supported by the government, promising a compelling case to bring the championships to Africa.

The government has pledged its full backing, addressing the necessary logistical, security, and infrastructure requirements to ensure a world-class global event. Kasarani Stadium, with a capacity of 48,000, is expected to serve as the main venue. Kenya boasts a rich athletic heritage, with 72 World Championship and 38 Olympic gold medals, including 17 world records in various track and road events.

The country's athletes performed exceptionally well at the 2022 World Championships in Tokyo, securing second place in the medal table with seven gold medals from 11 podium finishes. Kenya has previously hosted the 2007 World Cross Country Championships in Mombasa, the World Under-18 Championships in Nairobi in 2017, the World U20 Championships in the capital in 2021, and the 2010 African Athletics Championships at Nyayo National Stadium.

While Kenya missed out on hosting the 2025 World Championships, a successful bid for 2029 would be a significant milestone for the East African nation on the global sporting stage. Next year, Kenya will co-host the Africa Cup of Nations football tournament alongside Tanzania and Uganda. In May, Botswana made history as the first African nation to host the World Athletics Relays in Gaborone.