Government backs UK bid for 2029 World Athletics Championships

After eight-year absence, Prime Minister Keir Starmer backs United Kingdom bid for 2029 World Athletics Championships; ‘Bringing the World Athletics Championships to the UK would be moment of great national pride, building on our global reputation for hosting memorable sporting events’

Last Updated: 19/07/25 10:12am

Mo Farah won gold in the 10,000m Men's final at the 2017 World Championships at the London Stadium

The Government has thrown its support behind the United Kingdom’s bid to host the World Athletics Championships and World Para Athletics Championships in 2029.

The events were last held in the UK in 2017 at the London Stadium, five years after hosting the Olympic Games.

London is the proposed location for the World Athletics Championships in 2029, when the Department for Culture, Media and Sport said “the Government is committed to taking the World Paras beyond the capital, with a host city to be
confirmed in due course.”

Prime Minister Keir Starmer said: “Bringing the World Athletics Championships to the UK would be a moment of great national pride, building on our global reputation for hosting memorable sporting events that showcase the very best
talent.

“Hosting these championships would not only unlock opportunities for UK athletes but it would inspire the next generation to get involved and pursue their ambitions.

“The event would provide a boost for UK businesses and support jobs as well as bring our communities together. I’m delighted to support the bid.”

The DCMS has confirmed it will provide “significant funding for both bids” and will work closely with bidder Athletic Ventures, UK Sport, and host cities.

Lisa Nandy, Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, said: “Major sporting events deliver unforgettable moments and have the power to bring our country together like little else.

“That’s why we’re excited to be backing a bid to bring the World Athletics and World Para Athletics Championships back to the UK in 2029.

“As part of our Plan for Change, we want to build on our world-class reputation as hosts, delivering not just economic benefits for the country but engaging communities, inspiring the next generation and showcasing the best of Britain to the world.”