World to see Odisha’s love for sports: CM Majhi

Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Friday said the world will witness the love for sports that the State has, as it will host the World Athletics Indoor Championships, 2028.

The State is looking forward to welcoming athletes and fans from across the globe and showcasing its organisational prowess and Indian hospitality, he said.

The World Athletics Council has awarded the hosting rights of the prestigious event to India for 2028, and it will be held in Odisha.

"Extremely proud to share that #Odisha is hosting the World Athletics Indoor Championships, 2028. With the Odisha edition, the prestigious event is back in India after 22 long years. This milestone reflects our emergence as a global sporting hub and our unwavering commitment to world-class excellence," Majhi said in a social media post.

Asserting that the State has arrived on the global stage, he said the world is ready to witness the love for sports that the State has.

The chief minister expressed his gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his continued guidance and support in strengthening the sports ecosystem.

This is a proud moment not only for Odisha but for the entire nation of India, said Majhi.

"We extend our sincere gratitude to World Athletics and the Athletics Federation of India for placing trust in Odisha to host one of the most prestigious championships in global athletics," he said.

The 2028 World Indoor Championships will see India host a global track and field championships for the first time, from March 3 to 5 in 2028, according to the statement.

World Indoor Championships typically has 26 events -- 13 each for men and women -- to be competed across three days.

The 13 events are 60m, 400m, 800m, 1500m, 3000m, 60m hurdles, 4x400m relay, high jump, pole vault, long jump, triple jump, shot put, heptathlon (pentathlon for women). The 4x400m mixed relay will be held for the first time in this year’s edition in Poland.