Odisha and Astana Set to Host World Athletics Indoor Championships in 2028 and 2030

The World Athletics Council has selected Odisha, India, and Astana, Kazakhstan, to host the World Athletics Indoor Championships in 2028 and 2030, respectively. This decision was made during a recent meeting in Poland. Odisha will host its first global track and field championship, while Astana aims to expand athletics into new markets. Additionally, Hefei, China, will host the 2028 World Race Walking Team Championships. These events highlight the growing prominence of athletics in emerging regions and the commitment to fostering a vibrant sporting culture.

By Narendra Chaudhary Mar 20, 2026, 09:14 IST

World Athletics Council Announces Championship Hosts

The World Athletics Council has officially designated Odisha, India, and Astana, Kazakhstan, as the venues for the World Athletics Indoor Championships in 2028 and 2030, respectively. This decision was made during the 240th World Athletics Council Meeting held in Torun, Poland, just prior to the World Athletics Indoor Championships Kujawy Pomorze 26.

Additional Championship Awards

In addition to the indoor championships, Hefei, China, has been awarded the 2028 World Athletics Race Walking Team Championships. This announcement was part of the two-day meeting that took place on March 18-19.

Remarks from World Athletics President

Sebastian Coe, the President of World Athletics, welcomed attendees to Torun, highlighting Poland's rich history in athletics. He stated, "Poland is a significant hub for global athletics, known for producing Olympic champions and world record-holders across various disciplines. Many world-class athletes will compete here this weekend."

Coe expressed his enthusiasm for awarding the next two editions of the championships to Odisha and Astana, emphasizing the importance of expanding athletics into emerging markets.

India's Milestone Hosting of 2028 Championships

The 2028 World Indoor Championships will mark India's inaugural hosting of a global track and field event, scheduled for March 3-5, 2028. Odisha, located on the Bay of Bengal, previously hosted the Asian Championships in 2017 and has also been a venue for a World Athletics Continental Tour Bronze meeting.

Odisha's Chief Minister, Mohan Charan Majhi, expressed pride in this achievement, stating, "This is a proud moment for Odisha and India. We thank World Athletics and the Athletics Federation of India for their trust in us to host this prestigious event."

He further noted that Odisha has prioritized sports in its development strategy, investing in top-notch sporting infrastructure and athlete development programs, which has positioned the state as a prime location for international sporting events.

Astana's Role in 2030 Championships

Astana will host the 2030 World Athletics Indoor Championships from March 15-17, 2030, further extending the sport's reach into new markets. The city has previously hosted the Asian Indoor Championships in 2023 and is set to hold World Indoor Tour Gold meetings in 2024 and 2025.

Askhat Khasenov, President of the Kazakhstan Athletics Federation, expressed gratitude for the opportunity, stating, "This milestone reflects our commitment to developing athletics in Kazakhstan. We aim to deliver a world-class event that will be memorable for the global athletics community."

Hefei to Host 2028 World Race Walking Team Championships

Hefei is set to host the 2028 World Race Walking Team Championships on April 9, 2028. This event continues a series of athletics competitions in China, following events in Nanjing, Guangzhou, Yangzhou, and Beijing from 2025 to 2027.

Sun Yuanfu, President of the Chinese Athletics Association, acknowledged the trust placed in Hefei, stating, "We will work diligently with the organizing committee to ensure high standards and showcase the city's strengths in hosting such competitions."