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India Bids for World Athletics Indoor Championships

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Wednesday, January 21st 2026 at 12:28 GMT by mykhel
      Locale: INDIA

Bhubaneswar, India - January 21st, 2026 - India's ambition to become a global sporting powerhouse took a significant step forward this week as a delegation from World Athletics concluded a two-day assessment of Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneswar. The visit signals a serious intent by the Athletics Federation of India (AFI) to bid for the prestigious World Athletics Indoor Championships, a feat that would mark a monumental achievement for Indian athletics and further solidify Odisha's reputation as a premier sporting destination.

The delegation's tour, which wrapped up on Tuesday, focused on evaluating the stadium's suitability to meet the stringent requirements of a World Athletics event. Led by AFI President Ravinder Dhillon, the group meticulously examined various aspects of the Kalinga Stadium, including the quality of the running track, seating capacity, logistical infrastructure, and media facilities. Representatives from the Sports Authority of Odisha and the Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation were also present, facilitating the inspection and providing crucial local expertise.

This initiative follows in the wake of Odisha's remarkable success in hosting the Odisha leg of the FIH Hockey Men's World League. That event served as a powerful demonstration of the state's organizational capabilities and its ability to manage and deliver high-profile international sporting competitions to a global audience. The AFI is actively seeking to capitalize on this established track record, positioning Kalinga Stadium as a viable and compelling choice for the World Athletics Indoor Championships.

"We are highly optimistic about hosting the World Athletics Indoor Championships," stated Ravinder Dhillon, expressing the AFI's enthusiasm. He acknowledged, however, that substantial investment and upgrades would be necessary to bring the stadium fully into alignment with World Athletics' exacting standards. The specific modifications needed remain under review, but are expected to focus on ensuring the complete adherence to international regulations concerning track performance, spectator comfort, media accessibility, and overall event management.

Securing the World Athletics Indoor Championships would represent a transformative moment for Indian athletics. The event draws athletes and fans from across the globe, offering unprecedented exposure and prestige. It would not only elevate the profile of Indian athletics on the international stage but also, crucially, inspire a new generation of aspiring athletes within India. The ripple effect of such a major event is anticipated to boost participation in track and field programs across the nation and foster a deeper appreciation for the sport.

While the official bid process timeline has yet to be finalized, the AFI is deeply committed to collaborating closely with the Odisha state government. The immediate priority is to formulate a comprehensive proposal meticulously detailing how Kalinga Stadium will meet all of World Athletics' criteria. This proposal will undoubtedly incorporate detailed plans for the necessary stadium improvements, security protocols, transportation logistics, and accommodation provisions for athletes and officials.

The bid also aligns with the broader ambitions of the Indian government to promote sports and encourage physical activity nationwide. Hosting the World Athletics Indoor Championships would provide a tangible platform for showcasing India's progress in developing world-class sporting infrastructure and its commitment to international cooperation in the sporting arena. The eyes of the global athletics community will be on India as the bid unfolds, and the successful securing of the championships would cement India's place as a rising force in the world of sports.