Coe aims for African 'legacy' with 2029 World Championships

What the report says

World Athletics president Sebastian Coe says staging the 2029 World Championships in Nairobi could leave both a physical and human “legacy” for Kenya and the wider African continent. Speaking to BBC Focus on Africa, Coe said the event should help build expertise in delivering major championships, while also leaving behind infrastructure and know-how for future events.

The Kenyan capital won hosting rights last month, beating bids from London and Rome, and will become the first city in Africa to stage the championships. Coe said the decision reflected World Athletics’ view that it was time to take the event to new ground, after Kenya’s unsuccessful bid for the 2025 edition. He said there is still substantial work to do before 2029, including preparations at Kasarani Stadium, which is being renovated and is set to host the championships.

BBC Africa reported that Kenya is also preparing to co-host the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations with Tanzania and Uganda, adding to a busy period for the country’s sports infrastructure. Coe also said the championships are vital for World Athletics because they generate most of its revenue and help fund development and competition programmes.

The report also noted concerns about Kenya’s doping record. Since 2017, more than 140 Kenyan athletes have been suspended by the Athletics Integrity Unit, and anti-doping credibility remains a key issue. Coe said stepped-up testing and investment are beginning to show progress, though challenges remain, particularly in road running events.