Sep 15: The world of athletics is set for two major international showcases after Nairobi and Munich were selected to host the World Athletics Championships in 2029 and 2031, respectively.
The decision puts both cities at the centre of the global athletics calendar and gives them an opportunity to welcome athletes and fans from around the world. The championships are expected to provide a major platform for elite competitors while also bringing the excitement of international athletics closer to local audiences.
For Nairobi, hosting the 2029 edition is particularly significant. Kenya has a deep connection with athletics and has produced some of the world’s most successful distance runners. A home championship could provide Kenyan athletes with a unique opportunity to compete in front of their supporters while inspiring a new generation to take up the sport.
Munich will host the championship two years later in 2031. The German city has considerable experience with major sporting events and will have the opportunity to showcase its sporting facilities and event-management capabilities to a global audience.
The impact of hosting such a major competition is expected to extend beyond the stadium. International visitors can provide a boost to hotels, restaurants, transport services, tourism operators and other local businesses. The events can also create opportunities for volunteers, young athletes and local sporting communities.
For athletics fans, the two championships will offer opportunities to watch the world’s leading competitors battle for medals across track and field events. For the host cities, they represent a chance to strengthen their international sporting profile.
With several years remaining before the championships, Nairobi and Munich now have time to prepare venues, accommodation, transport networks and other facilities needed to accommodate athletes, officials and spectators from around the world.
The selection of the two cities highlights the continued global growth of athletics and sets the stage for two major celebrations of sport in 2029 and 2031.