The Athletics Federation of India (AFI) announced that India will host its maiden World Athletics Continental Tour event on August 10, 2025, in Bhubaneswar. This bronze-level global meet is part of the annual series of track and field competitions organized under the aegis of World Athletics, representing the second tier of international one-day meetings after the prestigious Diamond League.
This announcement marks a significant milestone for Indian athletics, as it will be the first global athletics meet hosted by India since the international permit meets held in the late 1980s and early 1990s, and the World Half Marathon Championships in 2004. An AFI official expressed optimism about the event’s potential to boost the country’s presence on the global track and field stage.
World Athletics Continental Tour’s impact on India
The decision to host the event in Bhubaneswar is seen as a strategic move to leverage the city’s growing reputation as a sports hub. The AFI is also exploring the possibility of hosting a major global javelin meet next year, riding on the success of Olympic gold and silver medallist Neeraj Chopra and the emergence of several Indian javelin throwers who can throw over 80 meters.
The Continental Tour event is expected to provide a platform for Indian athletes to showcase their talent on an international stage and gain valuable experience competing against top-level athletes from around the world. The AFI believes that hosting such prestigious events will help grow athletics in the country and inspire a new generation of athletes.
With the event scheduled for August 10, 2025, preparations are already underway to ensure a successful and memorable competition. The AFI is committed to providing world-class facilities and support to the participating athletes, aiming to make the event a landmark moment in Indian sports history.
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