Chandigarh to Host Asian Relay Race Championship, Boosting Global Sports Recognition

Chandigarh's Pride in Hosting the Asian Relay Race Championship

Punjab Governor Gulab Chand Kataria has expressed that Chandigarh's role as the host for the Asian Relay Race Championship will significantly enhance the city's visibility in the global sports arena, opening doors for more national and international events. He emphasized the pride associated with Chandigarh hosting this prestigious championship.

Kataria extended his gratitude to the Asian Athletics Association for selecting Chandigarh, the Indian federation for their backing, and the local sports department officials for their relentless efforts in promoting sports in the area. He noted that over the past two years, around ₹28 crore has been allocated for scholarships and awards for young athletes participating in various competitions, alongside initiatives to upgrade sports facilities.

He remarked, "It is a matter of great pride for Chandigarh and the nation that we have the chance to host the Asian Relay Race Championship, which will see participation from over 20 countries and more than 250 athletes. This event aims to firmly establish Chandigarh on the global sports map and ensure it continues to attract national and international competitions."

India Secures Hosting Rights for Two Major Continental Events

For the first time, the Asian Athletics Association has granted India the rights to host two significant continental competitions. Chandigarh is set to host the 2027 Asian Relay Championships, while Bhubaneswar will be the venue for the 2028 Asian Indoor Championships. These decisions were made during the Asian Athletics Association Council Meeting held in Hong Kong recently.

Bahadur Singh Sagoo, president of the Athletics Federation of India (AFI), hailed the allocation of these events as a monumental achievement for Indian athletics. He stated, "This will greatly enhance athletics and sports overall. Hosting international events will allow the athletics community to witness elite athletes in action."

Details of the 2027 Asian Relay Championships in Chandigarh

The AFI has announced that the Asian Relay Championships will take place in May 2027 at the Sector 7 Sports Complex in Chandigarh, with support from the Chandigarh Administration. The championship will feature six events, including men's and women's 4x100m and 4x400m relays, as well as mixed 4x100m and 4x400m relays.

Chandigarh's Home Secretary, Mandeep Singh Brar, stated that hosting this event would further enhance the region's sporting culture. He expressed excitement about welcoming top athletes from across Asia for this prestigious continental competition.

2028 Asian Indoor Championships in Bhubaneswar

Odisha's Chief Minister, Mohan Charan Majhi, welcomed Bhubaneswar's selection as the host for the 2028 Asian Indoor Championships, highlighting that this event would promote sports culture in the state and serve as excellent preparation for the upcoming 2028 World Athletics Indoor Championships.

The Asian Indoor Championships are scheduled to occur in January 2028 at Bhubaneswar's Indoor Stadium.