African greats inspired by the potential of Nairobi 2029

The decision to award the 2029 World Athletics Championships to Nairobi has sparked joy and excitement across Africa. Haile Gebrselassie, a two-time Olympic 10,000m champion, expressed his delight on Tuesday morning following the announcement by World Athletics. Nairobi will see the globe's top athletes compete at the 48,000-capacity Kasarani Stadium for the first time in its history.

The announcement has resonated with East Africa's top athletes, who are eager to see the sport "come home". Julius Yego, a javelin world champion, stated that the event is "a huge thing for Africa" and will bring the world to Kenya, inspiring people to know more about the continent. Gebrselassie anticipates a unique atmosphere inside the stadium, as athletes and spectators alike will experience a significant event in their home country.

Janeth Jepkosgei, a former Olympic 800m champion, believes the decision will inspire the next generation of African athletes to dream of winning at home. Kenyan sprinter Ferdinand Omanyala, who holds the African 100m record, expects the 2029 event to give a boost to current and future athletes, providing them with motivation and inspiration.

Africa's hosting of several major sports events in the coming years, including the Youth Olympics and potential future Olympic bids, has given Gebrselassie and others hope that Africans can successfully host global events.