Odisha Set to Host World Athletics Indoor Championships in 2028

Odisha is gearing up to host the World Athletics Indoor Championships in 2028, a historic first for India. The ceremonial flag was presented to Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, symbolizing the state's readiness for this prestigious event. As the countdown begins, this championship promises to showcase India's growing sports infrastructure and organizational excellence on a global stage. Discover more about this exciting development in Indian athletics.

By Narendra Chaudhary Apr 5, 2026, 02:14 IST

A Historic Moment for Odisha

In a significant event held at Kalinga Stadium, Bhubaneswar, Odisha's Minister of Sports & Youth Services, Suryavanshi Suraj, officially handed over the World Athletics flag to Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi. This ceremony marks a pivotal step for the state as it prepares to host the World Athletics Indoor Championships in 2028.

Scheduled for March 3 to 5, 2028, this championship will be the first global track and field event hosted by India.

The ceremonial flag was presented to Ravinder Choudhry from the Athletics Federation of India (AFI) and Sports Secretary Bhupendra Singh Poonia in Poland, symbolizing the formal transfer of hosting duties to India.

Upon receiving the flag, the Chief Minister expressed that this occasion transcends mere event hosting; it represents a legacy. As the countdown to 2028 commences, the flag embodies ambition, pride, and a commitment to showcase that both India and Odisha are prepared for this monumental event.

In a landmark announcement for Indian sports, Sebastian Coe revealed the hosting rights for the World Athletics Indoor Championships 2028 during the 240th World Athletics Council Meeting in Torun, Poland, just before the World Athletics Indoor Championships Kujawy-Pomerania '26.

The World Athletics Indoor Championships is renowned as one of the premier events in global track and field, attracting top athletes from around the world to compete in indoor settings. Hosting this championship presents Odisha with a unique opportunity to highlight India's evolving sports infrastructure and organizational capabilities.