India is set to make a significant leap on the global athletics stage by mounting a strategic bid for both the 2029 and 2031 World Athletics Championships. This dual-bid approach, confirmed by Adille Sumariwalla, vice-president of World Athletics and former president of the Athletics Federation of India (AFI), reflects India’s ambition to host one of the world’s most prestigious track and field events for the first time.
By bidding for both editions, India increases its odds of being selected, especially since Asia is already set to host the 2025 (Tokyo) and 2027 (Beijing) championships. Awarding the 2029 event to India would mean three consecutive Asian hosts, which makes the 2031 edition a more likely opportunity. Hosting a World Athletics Championship would bolster India’s credentials for its long-term goal of bidding for the 2036 Olympic Games, demonstrating organizational capacity and global sporting relevance.
The recent success of events like the Neeraj Chopra Classic has galvanized support for more international athletics competitions in India, showcasing the country’s growing interest and capability in athletics.
Sumariwalla emphasized that the AFI is prepared for a “strategic” bid, stating, “Both editions will be awarded together and whichever edition we get is fine. There is still some time (for the process to start). We are going to submit the bids”.
India has already submitted an expression of interest to host the 2028 World Athletics U20 Championships, signaling a broader push to bring major international events to the country.
The AFI is also eyeing future editions of the World Athletics Relays, with Botswana and the Bahamas hosting the next two editions in 2026 and 2028, respectively.
These bids are part of a deliberate strategy to build a robust track record in hosting global sports events, a necessary step toward the ultimate goal of hosting the Olympics.
India’s dual bid for the 2029 and 2031 World Athletics Championships marks a bold step in its journey toward becoming a global sporting powerhouse. With strategic planning, growing public enthusiasm, and high-level support, India is positioning itself as a serious contender to host one of athletics’ crown jewels. The coming months will be crucial as the AFI prepares its formal bid, with the eyes of the sporting world watching closely.