India has submitted ‘declaration of intent’ for U-20 World Athletics Championships hosting rights: Sebastian Coe

World Athletics head Sebastian Coe reveals India's bid for 2028 Under-20 World Championships, emphasizing athlete-centric policies.

The Athletics Federation of India has submitted a letter of intent to host the 2028 Under-20 World Athletics Championships, the sport's world governing body head Sebastian Coe told PTI on Wednesday (November 27, 2024).

World Athletics (WA) had, in August this year, invited bids for the 2028 and 2030 editions of the championships, and Mr. Coe said he is happy that India has joined the process.

“I’m pleased to say that I take home a declaration of intent, a letter of application to join the bidding discussions for the 2028 Under-20 World Championships,” Mr. Coe revealed.

“So, look, this is moving in the right direction (for India),” said the legendary former middle-distance runner, who has already met Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya since arriving New Delhi.

He is currently in Mumbai and held meetings with representatives of Tata Communications, who are the broadcast rights holders of the inaugural World Athletics Ultimate Championships, featuring top-ranked athletes, to be held in 2026.

Mr. Coe, who is a contender for the International Olympic Committee's president's post during the elections next year, added that if he is elected to the top post, athletes will be at the centre of every policy the global body formulates.

“I’m working on a manifesto at the moment. And that manifesto is going to really reflect the views of all my colleagues that I’ve spoken to and many of the critical stakeholders in the Olympic landscape.” he said.