Athletics Federation of India Reveals Exciting 2026 Calendar with New Events

AFI Announces 2026 Domestic Calendar

The Athletics Federation of India (AFI) has unveiled its domestic calendar for 2026, featuring the inaugural National Indoor Championships and an upgraded World Athletics Continental Tour Silver Level Meet in Bhubaneswar, which are set to be the highlights of the year. This announcement was made on Tuesday through an official release.

According to AFI's competition director, Ravinder Chaudhry, the first National Indoor Championships will take place at Bhubaneswar's Indoor Stadium on March 24 and 25. Additionally, the World Athletics Continental Tour Silver Level Meet is scheduled for August in the same city.

Moreover, Bhubaneswar will host the first Indoor Open Combined Events and Pole Vault Competition in May.

The comprehensive 2026 calendar will include around 40 competitions aimed at enhancing the skills of both senior and junior athletes in preparation for the Asian Games, which will occur from September 19 to October 4.

To foster regional competition, the AFI is launching an Indian Athletics Series next year, consisting of 16 events from April to September. This series aims to provide young athletes with opportunities to compete at a higher level with a minimum entry standard.

Updated Eligibility Criteria for National Championships

In order to participate in the 29th National Senior Athletics Federation Championships in May, athletes must now compete in at least two events as per the new eligibility criteria set by the AFI.

For the 65th National Inter State Senior Athletics Championships in July, competitors are required to take part in three competitions, including state-level meets.

2026 AFI Domestic Calendar Overview