Odisha, the rising powerhouse of Indian athletics, is set to script history by hosting India’s first-ever World Athletics Global Meet, a defining moment that marks the state’s emergence on the global sports map. The prestigious event World Athletics Continental Tour Bronze, is scheduled to be held at the iconic Kalinga Stadium, Bhubaneswar, on 10th August 2025, in collaboration with World Athletics and the Athletics Federation of India. The event will bring together more than 200 elite athletes from 19 countries, turning Odisha into the epicenter of international athletics.
This milestone reaffirms Odisha’s reputation as India’s premier destination for athletics and international sporting events. Over the years, the state has invested heavily in world-class sports infrastructure, athlete development, and international collaborations earning praise from athletes, federations, and global observers.
Athletes and officials from India, Great Britain, Portugal, Australia, South Africa, Iraq, Iran, Korea, Malaysia, the Philippines, Somalia, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Bhutan, Algeria, Turkmenistan, and others, will converge in Bhubaneswar for the tour. The meet will feature thrilling competitions across track and field disciplines, showcasing elite performances and international camaraderie.
The event will not only give Indian athletes an opportunity to compete against world-class talent at home but will also serve as a qualifying platform for upcoming international championships, further enhancing its strategic importance.
Odisha’s journey to this landmark began in 2017, when it hosted the Asian Athletics Championships, welcoming athletes from 45 nations. That pivotal event marked the beginning of a bold and sustained effort to position Odisha as India’s athletics powerhouse. Since then, the state has successfully hosted marquee competitions such as the Federation Cup, Indian Grand Prix, National Inter-State Championships, and several junior national meets building both credibility and momentum.
At the heart of this transformation lies the Kalinga Stadium, continually upgraded to international standards. With an IAAF-certified synthetic track, international-grade facilities, and athlete-centric amenities, it has become the nerve center of India’s athletics revolution. Beyond Bhubaneswar, the state has also invested in district- and block-level athletic stadiums, ensuring that grassroots talent can train close to home.
Odisha’s success extends far beyond infrastructure. Its athlete-first model ensures a holistic approach from High Performance Centres for elite training to grassroots scouting that discovers raw talent in tribal and rural regions. For many youngsters, stepping onto a synthetic track was once a distant dream; today, they are national medalists and international contenders. The state supports its athletes with world-class coaching, financial assistance, nutritional programs, and secure government jobs for medal winners, making sports a sustainable career path.
Under the visionary leadership of the Government of Odisha, sports have become a key driver of youth engagement and global outreach. The Department of Sports and Youth Services (DSYS) has been instrumental in building grassroots sports ecosystems and nurturing athletic talent across districts. Hosting a global meet under the banner of World Athletics is not only a reward for these efforts but also a recognition of Odisha’s credibility and commitment.
“Hosting the World Athletics Continental Tour Bronze in Odisha for the first time is a matter of immense pride. We are fully prepared to organise it successfully,” said Shri Suryabanshi Suraj, Hon’ble Sports Minister of Odisha.
The World Athletics Continental Tour Bronze is more than just a competition; it is a defining moment in Odisha’s sporting journey. For young athletes, it offers a once-in-a-lifetime chance to witness world-class talent up close, igniting dreams and aspirations. For India, it signals a growing presence in the global athletics arena.
As the world turns its eyes to Bhubaneswar this August, the World Athletics Continental Tour Bronze Meet will stand as a celebration of sportsmanship, state pride, and international unity setting a gold standard for future sporting events in India.
