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In what might be one of the most important RFPs to come along, World Athletics (formerly the International Amateur Athletic Federation) and the global governing body for all running events, including track & field), has opened the bidding process for the 2029 and 2031 editions of the World Athletics Championships.
This event, which features elite track & field competition, is one of the largest in the world and is expected to generate upwards of $400 million for the host destination. It spurs tourism from visitors worldwide, hotel usage, restaurant traffic and visits to local attractions.
Member federations and host institution stakeholders interested in hosting or receiving more information about staging either of these events should consult the World Athletics Championships 2029 and 2031 bid guide and then complete and return the bid pre-qualification form, both available via the World Athletics Library.
Multiple documents are found in the Library Link; those interested should ascertain they are using the following:
Bid Guide for World Athletics Championships.
The bidding process is set out in the bidding calendar. The pre-qualification form submission deadline for both events is October 1, 2025.

Documents outline needs, including (but not limited to) the following:
- Facility Requirements
- Insurance
- Sustainability Initiatives
- Hotel Requirements
- Meeting Room Needs
- Security Requirements
- Budgeting/Finance
- Information on Local Points of Access (Airports, Rail, Roadways, etc.)
- Media Needs
- Technology Requirements
Those interested should review all documents prior to application.
The World Athletics Championships is one of the most prestigious major international sporting events in the world. As the pinnacle athletics event of the year and the outdoor season finale, it brings together the world’s best athletes to compete for their nations on the biggest stage of all.
As part of the process, World Athletics invites member federations and host institution stakeholders interested in hosting the World Athletics Championships 2029/2031 to participate in its observer program at the World Athletics Championships Tokyo 25 in September.
The observer program will go behind the scenes in Tokyo to provide a unique experience and valuable knowledge exchange, offering the best opportunity to observe, learn and engage with both World Athletics and LOC staff in event hosting mode. Further information can be requested from Mark Hurst, Head of Bidding at World Athletics.
After Tokyo, the next World Athletics Championships will be held in Beijing in 2027.