Athletic Ventures has today (Sunday 27 April) announced the campaign to bring the World Athletics Championships back to London in 2029.
Alongside UK Sport and the Mayor of London, Athletic Ventures – the joint venture between UK Athletics (UKA), Great Run Company and London Marathon Events – has now completed a feasibility study which projects a record-breaking economic and social impact of more than £400 million through its innovative plans for the 2029 World Athletics Championships.
The previous World Athletics Championships in London in 2017 were by far the most successful in the history of the sport, with a sold-out stadium for every session. Dame Denise Lewis, President of UK Athletics (UKA), who was part of the team that secured the 2017 Championships bid in Monaco in 2011, reflected on the legacy it left behind.
“London 2017 showed the world what this city and this country can do,” said Lewis. “It was an incredible example of how we can unite behind a vision — full stadiums, global energy, and a lasting impact. I was proud to help bring that event to life, and I know we can do it again in 2029.”
This year’s TCS London Marathon, which is set to see over 56,000 participants take to the streets today, has provided the perfect springboard for launching the 2029 bid. With an estimated 750,000 spectators and an anticipated economic impact exceeding £250 million, the marathon continues to showcase London’s reputation for delivering world-class events.
“It’s a powerful reminder of what this city — and this country — can achieve,” said Lewis. “Global sporting events generate far more than just medals — they ignite economies, inspire communities, and shine a light on everything we have to offer as a nation.”
The bid for 2029 comes as part of a wider vision to redefine how major international events are delivered in the UK. At the heart of the proposal is Athletic Ventures, a pioneering new model that combines commercial backing with a strong emphasis on community engagement and long-term legacy.
“Where a traditional World Championships in London might generate around £150 million in economic value,” Lewis explained, “Athletic Ventures is aiming to nearly triple that — projecting a combined economic and social impact of more than £400 million.”
The London 2029 campaign is designed not only to deliver a successful World Championships but also to extend benefits nationwide. This weekend alone, more than 15,000 children…
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