Sebastian Coe Speaks on India's Ability to Host Global Events

Sebastian Coe, President of World Athletics, stated that India has the ability to hold big events in athletics in the future, this was declared after the Athletics Federation of India officially sent out their intent to host the Under-20 World Championships in 2028.

These days, Coe is staying in India and is highlighted about two developments: strengthening the partnership with Tata Communications and building the bridges with AFI and government officials he mentioned. During the trip, the former British athlete met Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who, Coe said, considers athletics as a catalyst to health and economic growth and education development.

Further, Coe stated, "I think there's a recognition from the Prime Minister that these events drive sporting participation but also deliver outcomes far beyond just the field of play."

He also met the Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya, who told him regarding India's letter of intent to the International Olympic Committee about the intention of the country to host the Summer Olympic and Paralympic Games 2036.

The President of World Athletics stated that India's athletics ecosystem is changing at a significant grassroots level due to online coaching programs initiated by the global body. In terms of the past twelve months, more than 3000 coaches at Level 1 and 250 at Level 2 have been trained.

Indian athletics has been strengthened by exceptional athletes like Neeraj Chopra, the first Indian track and field athlete to win an Olympic gold medal.

Talking to the world's sporting community, Coe also mentioned the partnership between World Athletics and Tata Communication. In June, the two organizations entered into a five-year global host broadcasting services agreement for World Athletics Series events.

Furthermore, Coe explained, "Our partnership with Tata Communications is very important because we have made this four-year cycle in our sport a real focus on innovation. We needed to put our house in order and ensure our governance was in good shape. Now, in this four-year cycle my last four years in the sport we are focusing on innovation." 

Looking ahead, Coe expressed hope that Indian media companies and corporate sponsors would play a larger role in supporting the growth of athletics in India. He pointed to brand sponsorship deals with global companies like Sony, Honda, and Deloitte as proof of athletics' growing global appeal.