A new era in global athletics is taking shape as World Athletics officially announced the first wave of qualifiers for the inaugural World Athletics Ultimate Championship set for 2026. Twenty-six Olympic champions from the Paris 2024 Games have been confirmed as automatic qualifiers for this groundbreaking event, marking a thrilling step forward for the sport.
Set to be held in Budapest from September 11–13, 2026, the Ultimate Championship aims to unite the finest talents in track and field under one roof for a three-day, high-energy showdown. With a format designed to showcase only the elite, this biennial competition is poised to redefine how athletics championships are experienced by fans and athletes alike.
Unlike traditional championships, where heats and lengthy schedules often dilute the action, the Ultimate Championship will feature only semifinals and finals for track events, while field events will proceed straight to the finals. This structure not only increases competitiveness but also keeps the event concise and engaging over just three days of evening sessions.
Qualification for the Ultimate Championship is reserved for the top-tier performers in the sport. While the initial list features 26 gold medalists from the Paris Olympics, additional qualifiers will be determined by global rankings, world champions, and Diamond League winners in each event. The total number of participating athletes is expected to reach around 400, representing approximately 70 countries. Most events will host between 8 and 16 athletes, ensuring that only the best step onto the track or field.
Perhaps most notably, the World Athletics Ultimate Championship will boast a record-breaking prize fund of $10 million, making it the richest competition in track and field history. Winners of individual events will receive $150,000, highlighting the championship’s commitment to rewarding athletic excellence on a grand scale.
The competition will feature 28 events in total, including 16 track races, 10 field events, and two exciting mixed relays. One of the standout additions is the mixed 4x100m relay, which will debut at a major international championship for the first time—adding a fresh and dynamic dimension to the program.
World Athletics President Sebastian Coe emphasized that the Ultimate Championship will serve as a new pinnacle for the sport, particularly in non-Olympic and non-World Championship years. It is part of a broader strategy to enhance global fan engagement and ensure elite athletes have regular opportunities to compete at the highest level.
With the Paris Olympic champions leading the charge, anticipation is already building for what promises to be a thrilling debut in 2026.