Chandigarh and Bhubaneswar to Host Prestigious Asian Athletics Events

Chandigarh and Bhubaneswar, two Indian cities, have been chosen to host major athletics events in 2027 and 2028. The Asian Athletics Association awarded these cities the hosting rights for the Asian Relays and the Asian Indoor Championships, respectively, at its executive council meeting in Hong Kong.

The Asian Relays will see its third edition in Chandigarh next year, with previous editions held in Bangkok and Shaoxing. Bhubaneswar's Kalinga Stadium, known for its modern indoor facilities, will be the venue for the 2028 Asian Indoor Championships. This move reinforces India's ambition to become a central player in hosting significant athletic competitions.

According to Athletics Federation of India president Bahadur Singh Sagoo, the Chandigarh Administration has pledged support for the Asian Relays, to occur at the Sector 7 Sports Complex. The AFI made its bid last year for these events, reflecting India's strategic push for a more significant role in international sports.

The events promise to bring together over 200 athletes from across Asia, enhancing the region's sports profile. Moreover, Bhubaneswar is also slated to host the 2028 World Indoor Championships. This commitment to hosting resonates with India's efforts to stage global and continental sporting events in upcoming years, including possible future bids for the World U20 and senior World Athletics Championships.

(With inputs from agencies.)