Tashkent to Host 2027 World Para Athletics Championships: A Historic First for Uzbekistan

Tashkent Set to Welcome World Para Athletics Championships

New Delhi [India], April 21: Tashkent has been officially designated as the venue for the 2027 World Para Athletics Championships, marking a significant milestone as it will be the first time this esteemed event takes place in Uzbekistan and the broader Central Asian region.

The announcement was made by World Para Athletics, confirming that this major para-sport event will occur at the Olympic City Main Stadium in June 2027, as detailed on the World Para Athletics website.

The upcoming Tashkent 2027 will represent the 13th edition of the World Para Athletics Championships and will be the fifth occasion the event is hosted in Asia, following previous championships in Doha (2015), Dubai (2019), Kobe (2024), and New Delhi (2025).

With an anticipated participation of approximately 1,300 athletes from over 100 countries, this championship is poised to be the largest international Para sport event ever held in Uzbekistan.

While the exact number of events is still pending confirmation, the program is expected to feature at least 164 events, in line with the Paralympic Games framework, with the potential for additional competitions.

Paul Fitzgerald, the Head of World Para Athletics, expressed enthusiasm about the announcement, emphasizing the event's importance for both Uzbekistan and the Central Asian region.

“We are thrilled to announce that the 2027 World Para Athletics Championships will be hosted in Tashkent, Uzbekistan. This will be the largest international Para sport event ever in the country, creating significant opportunities to expand our sport, engage fans, and positively influence societal views on individuals with disabilities in Central Asia,” he stated.

Fitzgerald also commended Uzbekistan's advancements in Para athletics.

“In recent years, Uzbekistan has emerged as a notable player in Para athletics. Their athletes have demonstrated improved performances at World Championships and Paralympics, showcasing the efforts of the National Paralympic Committee of Uzbekistan in enhancing facilities and investing in sports. We believe the upcoming World Championships will leave a lasting legacy not just in Uzbekistan but throughout the region,” he added.

Dr. Mukhtorkhon Tashkhodjaev, Chairman of NPC Uzbekistan, remarked, “We are excited to welcome talented athletes and future champions. This is a unique opportunity to showcase our nation’s hospitality and dedication to sports.”

The last World Para Athletics Championships took place in New Delhi, India, where over 1,000 athletes from more than 100 nations competed across 186 medal events.

Brazil led the medal tally, while Uzbekistan secured a commendable position in the top 15 with five gold medals.