Kenya bids to become first African nation to host World Athletics Championships

Kenya has submitted an official bid to host the 2029 World Athletics Championships, aiming to become the first African nation to stage the sport's flagship event.

Nairobi faces competing bids from London, Rome and Munich, with a decision from World Athletics expected next month.

Athletics Kenya says its bid is backed by the government and presents a strong case for bringing the championships to Africa.

"The government has committed its full support to the bid, ensuring the necessary organisational framework, security measures and modern infrastructure required to host a world-class global showpiece," the organization said in a statement.

Kasarani Stadium, with a capacity of 48,000, is expected to be the intended venue.

Kenya has a long history in athletics, particularly in middle- and long-distance running, with 72 World Championship and 38 Olympic gold medals to its name.

Kenyan athletes currently hold 17 world records across track and road events, including both the men's and women's marathon.

At last year's World Championships in Tokyo, Kenya finished second in the overall medal table, winning seven golds among 11 podium finishes.

Kenya has hosted major athletics events before, including the 2007 World Cross Country Championships in Mombasa, the World Under-18 Championships in Nairobi in 2017, and the World U20 Championships in the capital in 2021.

Nairobi also hosted the 2010 African Athletics Championships at Nyayo National Stadium.

Kenya previously bid unsuccessfully for the 2025 World Championships. Winning the rights to host the 2029 edition would mark another significant step for the country on the global sporting stage.

Kenya is also set to co-host next year's Africa Cup of Nations football tournament alongside Tanzania and Uganda.

In May, Botswana became the first African nation to host the World Athletics Relays, staging the event in Gaborone.