Kenya to host 2029 World Athletics Championships in African first

Kenya has been chosen to host the World Athletics Championships in 2029, marking a historic first for the African continent. The event will take place in Nairobi at the 48,000-capacity Kasarani Stadium. London and Rome were among the cities that did not secure the bid, with Munich ultimately awarded the 2031 hosting rights. Kenya's strong athletics legacy was a key factor in its successful bid, with the East African nation boasting 72 World Championship and 38 Olympic gold medals, primarily won by middle- and long-distance runners.

The country's two-time Olympic marathon champion, Eliud Kipchoge, who also claimed the 5000m gold at the 2003 World Championships, played a crucial role in presenting Nairobi's case during the bid. World Athletics president Sebastian Coe praised Kenya's bid as "compelling and emotional," emphasizing that the sport is deeply embedded in the country's culture.

Nairobi's experience in hosting major athletics events, such as the 2017 World Under-18 and 2021 World U20 Championships, further bolstered its candidacy. The decision to award the event to Kenya is a significant milestone for Africa, as no continent has previously hosted the senior World Championships. Kenya's successful bid also showcased its capability in hosting major athletics events, having recently renovated Kasarani Stadium in preparation for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations alongside Tanzania and Uganda.