Excitement as India Prepares to Host 2028 World Athletics Indoor Championship
Synopsis
In a momentous announcement, India will host the 2028 World Athletics Indoor Championship in Bhubaneswar. Sports Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya and MoS Raksha Khadse celebrate this significant achievement, highlighting India’s growing role on the global sports stage.
Key Takeaways
Bhubaneswar to host 2028 World Athletics Indoor Championships.
Announcement made by Sports Minister Dr.
India's growing reputation as a significant sports hub.
Formerly hosted the World Half Marathon in 2004.
Positive feedback from World Athletics Council on facilities.
New Delhi, March 19 (NationPress) Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, the Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports, along with Smt. Raksha Khadse, the Minister of State for Youth Affairs and Sports, have voiced their joy upon learning that India will be the host for the prestigious 2028 World Athletics Indoor Championship in Bhubaneswar.
In a heartfelt social media post, the Sports Minister began with an enthusiastic declaration: "The World is coming to India!"
"I am thrilled to announce that Bhubaneswar, Odisha, will be the venue for the 2028 World Athletics Indoor Championships," he wrote.
Dr. Mandaviya emphasized that under the guidance of PM Shri @narendramodi ji, India is not only enhancing its medal tally globally but is also establishing itself as a preferred location for major international sporting events.
Minister Khadse echoed this sentiment in her own post on X, stating, "India is not merely a participant but is evolving into a significant hub on the global sports landscape."
She further noted, "The assignment of hosting rights for the 2028 World Athletics Indoor Championships to Bhubaneswar is a landmark achievement. Under the esteemed leadership of Prime Minister Shri @narendramodi ji, India has witnessed exceptional advancements in all facets of sports—whether it be athlete performance or the hosting of significant international competitions."
"This accomplishment underscores that India is not just securing medals but is also developing the capability to influence the future of global sports," she added, responding to the announcement made by the senior minister.
Earlier that day, Bahadur Singh Sagoo, the president of the Athletics Federation of India (AFI), confirmed that the World Athletics Council has awarded India the hosting rights for the 2028 Indoor Championships.
“The 2028 World Athletics Indoor Championships will take place in Bhubaneswar. The global event is set to be hosted at the Kalinga Indoor Stadium,” stated the AFI president.
The decision to award India the 2028 championship occurred during the World Athletics Council meeting in Torun, Poland, which is also hosting the 2026 edition from March 20 to 22. Notably, India previously hosted the World Half Marathon in New Delhi back in 2004.
In January, members of the World Athletics Council visited the Kalinga Indoor Stadium in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, and expressed satisfaction with the facilities available.
Point of View
The country is not only enhancing its reputation as a sporting nation but is also paving the way for future international events, demonstrating growth in both athlete performance and infrastructure.
NationPress
10 Aug 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Where will the 2028 World Athletics Indoor Championship be held?
The championship will take place in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, at the Kalinga Indoor Stadium.
Who announced the hosting rights for the event?
The Athletics Federation of India (AFI) confirmed that the World Athletics Council has awarded India the hosting rights.
When will the 2028 World Athletics Indoor Championship occur?
The exact dates for the 2028 championship have not yet been announced.
What significance does this event hold for India?
Hosting the championship is a historic achievement for India, showcasing its capabilities in organizing major international sporting events.
Has India hosted similar events before?
Yes, India previously hosted the World Half Marathon in New Delhi in 2004.
