World Athletics has announced the introduction of the World Athletics Ultimate Championship, a groundbreaking global championship event poised to redefine the athletics calendar. This new competition aims to determine the ultimate champion by pitting world champions, Olympic champions, Wanda Diamond League winners, and the year’s top-performing athletes against each other.
The World Athletics Ultimate Championship will debut from September 11-13, 2026, in Budapest, Hungary, and will be held biennially. The event promises to be a spectacular finale to the summer athletics season, featuring a record-setting prize pot of $10 million, the largest ever offered in track and field history. Gold medallists will receive $150,000 each.
Designed to captivate millions of television viewers worldwide, the Ultimate Championship will adopt a thrilling and fast-paced format, taking place over three evening sessions, each under three hours. The event will showcase the best of athletics, including sprints, middle and long-distance races, relays, jumps, and throws. Athletes will represent their national teams, ensuring that individual success is complemented by national pride.
The governing body of athletics underscored its commitment to providing athletes with greater financial rewards, increased earning opportunities, and enhanced recognition. All athletes competing at the championship will be financially rewarded, and the ultimate champions will each receive $150,000. Additionally, athletes will benefit from greater promotional rights, allowing them to enhance their personal profiles commercially.
Budapest was chosen as the host city for the inaugural event following a competitive selection process. The Hungarian capital previously hosted one of the most successful World Athletics Championships in history last year. Nearly 400 of the world’s top athletes will compete in the inaugural World Athletics Ultimate Championship.
“Budapest is truly honoured to be the inaugural host city for the highly innovative World Athletics Ultimate Championship,” said Balázs Furjes, IOC member for Hungary. “Having successfully hosted the 2023 World Athletics Championships, Budapest is ready to deliver again. Staging the Ultimate Championship will be a great chance to celebrate the athletes from all over the world.”
World Athletics CEO Jon Ridgeon highlighted the event’s potential to reach a broader audience, particularly younger fans, and elevate the sport. “By embracing innovation and breaking away from traditional models, we aim to reach the biggest global audience possible and enhance the viewing experience both at home and in the stadium,” Ridgeon said. “We truly believe this will be a game changer for our entire sport.”
As preparations for this exciting new championship event continue, World Athletics will consult with stakeholders, including athletes, coaches, shoe companies, broadcast organizations, and member federations. A full event launch is planned for this coming autumn.
