Indian Athletics Calendar Revamped: AFI Introduces Major Events for 2026

New Delhi, Nov 25 (PTI) — Significant developments are on the horizon for Indian athletics in 2026, as the Athletics Federation of India (AFI) announced enhancements to its annual calendar during a press briefing on Tuesday. Key announcements include the elevation of a continental event and an increase in domestic competitions, highlighted by the debut of a national indoor meet.

The AFI revealed its intention to expand the number of domestic events from 32 to 40 over the year. A prominent change involves the upgrading of the Continental Tour meet, previously held in Bhubaneswar, from bronze to silver level. This elevation promises higher ranking points, likely attracting a superior field of athletes to participate.

AFI's Director of Competitions, Ravinder Choudhary, stated, "Last year, we conducted a bronze-level continental tour meet. This year, we are advancing to a silver-level competition." He also announced a groundbreaking initiative, saying, "We are introducing the inaugural Indoor National Championship—this marks the first occasion in our history for such an event."

Choudhary elaborated on plans for additional indoor competitions, including a separate indoor pole vault contest. "In the previous year, 32 competitions were held. We have now elevated that number to 40," he noted. The revamped series of events will be labeled the Indian Athletics Series, replacing the former Grand Prix title. The emphasis on increasing competitive opportunities aims to offer Indian athletes more exposure and improve their performance.

National coach P Radhakrishnan Nair added, "Participation in certain events will be mandatory for athletes vying for the Commonwealth Games and the Asian Games next year." He acknowledged, "With both games occurring in close proximity, conducting separate trials for them is not feasible."

This strategic enhancement of the athletic calendar reflects AFI's commitment to elevating the standards of Indian sports and providing its athletes with more opportunities to compete at higher levels.

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