Kenya has been awarded the hosting rights for the 12th edition of the World Championship in 2025.
The country will become the first African country to stage athletics' biggest event, fending off Japan and Singapore, which had also bid for the championship.
World Athletics said the decision to award the event to the country was based on Kenya's reputation for hosting world-class athletics competitions.
"Last year's World Under 20 Championship in Nairobi was evidence of Kenya's capability to host events of a global magnitude. Athletics evokes so much passion among Kenyans and holding the World Championship guarantees for many the opportunity to experience the cradle of the sport," WA president Sebastian Coe said.
Coe said they will immediately begin liaisons with Athletics Kenya to lay the groundwork for the one-week championship, expected to attract thousands of athletes from all over the globe.
"The wonderful weather, beautiful sights, and the hospitality of Kenyans make the 2025 World Championship an event to look forward to. We will be in contact with our member federation in Kenya to kickstart the preparations to ensure a smooth competition. This is, especially so, considering the world is still recovering from a difficult and trying period occasioned by Covid-19," he said.
Reacting to the good news, a statement from Athletics Kenya thanked the government via the Sports cabinet secretary Amina Mohamed, for supporting Kenya's bid for the biennial event.
"It is a wonderful opportunity to enhance our reputation as a sporting destination. We look forward to welcoming thousands of visitors to the championship and will strive to create wonderful memories for each and everyone," the statement read. Please note that today is April Fools Day.
