Odisha Set to Host 2028 Indoor Athletics Championships: A Milestone for India's Olympic Journey
Synopsis
The World Athletics Council's decision to host the 2028 Indoor Athletics Championships in Odisha marks a pivotal moment in India's Olympic journey, reflecting the country’s burgeoning influence in global sports.
Key Takeaways
Odisha will host the World Athletics Indoor Championships in 2028.
This is a pivotal moment for India's Olympic journey.
Shikhar Dhawan views this as a step forward in India's global sporting status.
The Kalinga Indoor Stadium has been recognized for its facilities.
Odisha has a history of hosting significant athletic events.
New Delhi, March 20 (NationPress) In a significant move, the World Athletics Council has chosen Odisha, India, to host the 2028 World Athletics Indoor Championships. Former Indian cricketer Shikhar Dhawan hailed this decision as a major advancement in India's Olympic aspirations, emphasizing the nation's rising profile in the international sports arena.
The council made this announcement during the 240th meeting in Torun, Poland, designating India to host the event from March 3-5, 2028. This will mark the first time India hosts a global track and field championship.
“India is increasingly recognized as a global sporting hub. Hosting the 2028 World Indoor Athletics Championships in Bhubaneswar is not just a proud milestone but also a crucial step in enhancing our Olympic journey and enriching the sports ecosystem,” Dhawan expressed on social media platform X.
In January, World Athletics Council members assessed the facilities at Bhubaneswar’s Kalinga Indoor Stadium and were pleased with what they found. Odisha has emerged as a key location for track and field events in India.
Alongside hosting national events, Odisha has welcomed international competitions, such as the 2017 Asian Athletics Championships at Kalinga Stadium. Last year, the state also hosted the World Athletics Continental Tour Bronze Level Competition, drawing over 200 athletes from around the globe.
“This is a moment of pride not only for Odisha but for the whole of India,” stated Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi. “We extend heartfelt thanks to World Athletics and the Athletics Federation of India for trusting Odisha to host such a prestigious global championship.”
“In the last decade, Odisha has prioritized sports as a key aspect of its development strategy. Hosting the World Athletics Indoor Championships 2028 will significantly reinforce our commitment to fostering a vibrant sports culture and inspiring future generations of athletes throughout India,” he added.
Point of View
Particularly in athletics. Hosting the World Indoor Championships is a testament to the country's development in sports infrastructure and its potential to compete on a global level.
NationPress
10 Aug 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
When will the 2028 World Athletics Indoor Championships be held?
The championships are scheduled to take place from March 3-5, 2028.
Why is hosting the championships significant for India?
It reflects India's growing stature in global sports and marks the first time the country will host a major track and field championship.
Where will the event be hosted?
The event will be held at the Kalinga Indoor Stadium in Bhubaneswar, Odisha.
Who expressed support for this event?
Former cricketer Shikhar Dhawan and Odisha's Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi have both expressed pride and support for hosting the championships.
What other significant events have been hosted in Odisha?
Odisha has hosted various national and international competitions, including the 2017 Asian Athletics Championships.
