In an effort to bridge the gap between the Olympics and world championships, World Athletics unveiled plans for the World Athletics Ultimate Championship, set to debut in Budapest in 2026. This three-day global championship, scheduled for September 11 to 13, aims to showcase the sport's biggest names and elevate the excitement of track and field competition on a global scale.
With an unprecedented prize fund of $10 million (9.2 million euros), including individual rewards of $150,000 for gold medallists, the event promises to be the most lucrative in the history of athletics. Held every two years, alternating with the outdoor world championships, the Ultimate Championship will feature up to 16 of the world's top-ranked athletes per discipline, totaling approximately 400 participants across various events.
World Athletics President Seb Coe emphasized the tournament's focus on excellence and intensity, with a streamlined format that skips directly to semifinals and finals. Coe expressed confidence that this approach will create immediate pressure for athletes striving to claim the coveted title of the ultimate champion, ensuring thrilling performances and fierce competition. Additionally, by strategically timing the event to maximize audience engagement, World Athletics aims to provide annual moments of peak viewership, enhancing the sport's global appeal and accessibility.
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