Chennai has been awarded the hosting rights for the 2029 Asian Athletics Championships, marking the fourth time India will stage the continental competition. The announcement was made by the Asian Athletics Association on Tuesday, with the award subject to the submission of government guarantee letters.
India has previously hosted the Asian Athletics Championships in New Delhi in 1989, Pune in 2013 and Bhubaneswar in 2017. Chennai will now become the fourth Indian city to host the event.
Asian athletics association confirms Chennai as Host city
The Asian Athletics Association announced the decision in a statement, confirming that Chennai, Tamil Nadu, had been selected to host the 2029 edition. "Subject to presentation of letters of guarantee from the Govt, Asian Athletics Association is pleased to award the 2029 Asian Athletics Championships to Chennai, Tamil Nadu," the statement read.
C. Latha, Chairman of the Tamil Nadu Athletics Association (TNAA), said the championships are likely to be held in August 2029. Speaking from Tokyo after attending the Asian Athletics Federation Council meeting, Latha explained that the state's presentation highlighted Chennai's sporting infrastructure and facilities.
Nehru stadium Infrastructure highlighted in presentation
According to Latha, the presentation focused on the Nehru Stadium's experience of hosting international athletics competitions, along with the availability of a practice facility at the Nehru 'B' ground.
The city's international airport and hotels located close to the competition venue were also highlighted. Latha added that the state government would relay the main athletics track ahead of the championships.
C.K. Valson, a member of the Competition Commission for Asian Athletics, had inspected the Nehru Stadium the previous week and was reportedly satisfied with the main track and practice ground.
Latha said Valson had suggested certain improvements, including arrangements for VIP lounges, modifications to the seating arrangements and the installation of LED screens.
She further stated that the remaining requirement was for the Tamil Nadu government to send a formal letter to the president of the Asian Athletics Association, confirming that it would bear the entire cost of hosting the competition.
India adds another major Athletics event to calendar
The 2029 Asian Athletics Championships will add to India's upcoming international athletics commitments. Chandigarh is scheduled to host the Asian Relays Championships in 2027, while Odisha is set to stage both the Asian Indoor Championships and the World Indoor Championships in 2028. Gujarat is also in contention to host the Under-20 World Championships in 2028.
Stay informed on all the latest news, real-time breaking news updates, and follow all the important headlines in india news and world news on Zee News English.
 "2029 Asian Athletics Championships to be held in Chennai as India secures hosting rights")
)