New Zealand has set its sights on making history by hosting the 2028 World Indoor Athletics Championships, a prestigious event never before held in Oceania. The bid, which has garnered strong government backing, represents an ambitious move for the country and could bring top global athletes to New Zealand’s shores.
The bid has already garnered substantial government support. Minister of Sport Chris Bishop met with World Athletics President Sebastian Coe during the Paris Olympics to discuss the proposal, signaling the nation’s serious intent. Athletics New Zealand CEO Cam Mitchell, a key advocate, believes the event could elevate the sport in New Zealand to new heights.
“We see a lot of rugby, cricket, netball, and football here, but elite-level track and field events don’t come around often. Hosting the World Indoor Championships would be a monumental occasion,” Mitchell said.
A Unique Opportunity for Oceania
Since its inception in 1985, the World Indoor Athletics Championships has never ventured to Oceania. Typically held in the Northern Hemisphere, the biennial event has largely been dominated by Europe and North America. New Zealand’s bid aims to change that, making it the first country in the Southern Hemisphere to host the prestigious competition.
The timing of the event would coincide with New Zealand’s late summer and early autumn in March 2028, creating an ideal environment for athletes. While traditionally held indoors, World Athletics has rebranded the competition as “short track,” allowing flexibility for outdoor venues. This shift opens the door for New Zealand to host the event at prominent locations like Auckland’s Eden Park or Christchurch’s new One New Zealand Stadium, set to open in 2026.
“Being able to host the event outdoors is a game-changer,” Mitchell explained. “It leverages our mild climate during that period and could offer athletes an escape from the harsh European winter, presenting New Zealand as a prime training destination.”
Global Stars and Local Heroes
If New Zealand wins the bid, it would bring the world’s top athletes to its shores. The championships typically draw 550 competitors from over 160 countries, and some of the biggest names in the sport could potentially grace New Zealand’s tracks. This includes global stars like American sprinters Noah Lyles and Sha’Carri Richardson, pole vault world record holder Armand Duplantis, and middle-distance legends Jakob Ingebrigtsen and Josh Kerr.
But the event would also shine a spotlight on New Zealand’s rising stars. High jumper Hamish Kerr and distance runner George Beamish both won gold at the most recent World Indoor Championships in Glasgow, while shot putter Tom Walsh, sprinter Zoe Hobbs, and pole vaulter Eliza McCartney are poised to continue their international success. Kerr is especially excited about the prospect of hosting the event on home soil.
