Addis Ababa Mayor Adanech Abiebie stated that efforts in sports diplomacy and grassroots development are bearing fruit. Ethiopia has for the first time secured the opportunity to host a world-class competition in Addis Ababa by entering the World Athletics Calendar. The event, the World Athletics Relays, is scheduled for May 18, 2026.
In a message delivered by Addis Ababa Mayor Adanech Abiebie, the works on sports diplomacy and grassroots sports development are bearing fruit. Through social media posts, the mayor congratulated Ethiopia for securing, for the first time, the opportunity to host a world-class competition in Addis Ababa by entering the World Athletics Calendar.
The event is the World Athletics Relays, set to take place on May 18, 2026, in Addis Ababa. The mayor described it as a great opportunity for the country and its athletes. She stated, "You have every reason to be fully delighted to record this great achievement."
World Athletics Director Piers Ocklagan, during a work visit to Ethiopia, noted that the country lacks sufficient capacity to host major world events. However, he indicated that they will bring various competitions to Ethiopia.