Kenya bids to make history with 2029 World Athletics Championships

Kenya has officially submitted a bid to host the 2029 World Athletics Championships, hoping to become the first African country to stage the prestigious global event.

Nairobi joins race to host championships

Nairobi is competing against London, Rome and Munich for the right to host the 2029 championships. World Athletics is expected to announce the successful bidder next month.

Government backs Kenya’s bid

Athletics Kenya says the government has committed its full support, including funding for infrastructure, security and the organisation of the international event. Kasarani Stadium, which can accommodate about 48,000 spectators, is expected to serve as the main venue.

Kenya’s athletics legacy

Kenya has established itself as one of the world’s leading athletics nations, particularly in middle- and long-distance running. The country has won 72 World Championship and 38 Olympic gold medals and currently holds 17 world records across track and road events.

Strong performance on the world stage

At the 2025 World Championships in Tokyo, Kenya finished second on the overall medal table after collecting seven gold medals and 11 podium finishes, strengthening its argument for hosting the global competition.

Experience hosting major events

Kenya has previously staged several major athletics competitions, including the 2007 World Cross Country Championships in Mombasa, the 2017 World Under-18 Championships and the 2021 World U20 Championships in Nairobi.

A chance to make history

Kenya previously failed in its bid to host the 2025 World Championships. Securing the 2029 edition would make history by bringing the sport’s biggest championships to Africa for the first time.

The country is also preparing to co-host the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations with Tanzania and Uganda. Meanwhile, Botswana became the first African nation to host the World Athletics Relays when it staged the event in Gaborone in May.