African greats inspired by the potential of Nairobi 2029

What the report says

World Athletics’ decision to award the 2029 World Athletics Championships to Nairobi has been welcomed by leading African track and field figures, who say the event could energize the sport across the continent. BBC Africa reported that the Kenyan capital beat former Olympic host cities London and Rome, and that the championships will be the first ever staged in Africa.

Former athletes and current stars described the bid as significant for both pride and practical opportunity. Ethiopian great Haile Gebrselassie congratulated Africa on the news, while Kenyan javelin champion Julius Yego said hosting the competition would be a major moment for the continent and a chance to showcase African athletics to a global audience. The event is planned for Kasarani Stadium in Nairobi, which is being redeveloped ahead of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.

Several athletes said the home championships should inspire younger competitors. Janeth Jepkosgei, the 2007 women’s 800m world champion who now coaches, said it gives youth athletes a clearer dream of competing for world titles on home soil. Kenyan sprinter Ferdinand Omanyala said the arrival of elite athletes in Nairobi would motivate the next generation by letting them see top competitors up close.

Beyond sport, commenters in the BBC report framed the decision as a broader statement about Africa’s ability to host major international events. Yego and Gebrselassie both suggested the bid could strengthen confidence for future African bids in athletics and beyond.