India will host its first-ever World Athletics Continental Tour Silver-level meet on August 22, 2026, in Bhubaneswar, marking an upgrade from last year's bronze-level event. This prestigious one-day competition is expected to attract elite international athletes and provide Indian competitors vital world ranking points on home soil.
The Athletics Federation of India (AFI) has confirmed that Bhubaneswar will host the inaugural Silver-Level World Athletics Continental Tour event on August 22, 2026. The event, held at the Kalinga Stadium, represents a significant upgrade from the bronze-level meet staged this year, enhancing India's presence on the global athletics stage.
This Silver-Level status, ranked as a Category B event in the World Athletics Continental Tour hierarchy, offers more world ranking points than bronze meets, attracting stronger international participation. Indian athletes will benefit from this opportunity to earn crucial ranking points without traveling abroad, bolstering their chances for major global events.
Next year’s expanded athletics calendar includes 40 competitions, up from 32 this year, with new events to develop talent and prepare athletes for the Commonwealth Games and Asian Games in 2026. AFI has also introduced mandatory participation requirements for national selection, underscoring its focus on raising competitive standards.
Key Highlights
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India to host first-ever World Athletics Continental Tour Silver-Level event on August 22, 2026
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Venue: Kalinga Stadium, Bhubaneswar, Odisha
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Upgrade from bronze-level event held in 2025
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Higher world ranking points encourage elite global athlete participation
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Expanded 2026 domestic athletics calendar with 40 competitions (up from 32)
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Strong focus on developing Indian athletes for Commonwealth and Asian Games
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New mandatory participation criteria for selection in national championships
Source: PTI News, News18, Times of India, Indian Express, Athletics Federation of India.