Registration is now officially open for the 2026 World Masters Athletics Championships (WMAC Daegu 2026). From December 23, 2025, to June 23, 2026, athletes aged 35 and above from around the world are invited to register through the official website (www.wmac2026.com). WMAC Daegu 2026 is expected to welcome more than 11,000 participants from over 90 countries, making it the world’s largest celebration of masters athletics and a truly global festival of sport, culture, and friendship.
The 2026 World Master Athletics Championships will take place from August 21 to September 3, 2026, turning Daegu into a dynamic hub for international athletic competition. With 34 track, field, and road events on the programme, the competitions will be centred around the iconic Daegu Stadium, which previously hosted the 2011 World Athletics Championships. Thanks to its world-class facilities and proven event management, Daegu is set to once again shine on the global stage.
Daegu holds a unique place in athletics history as the only city in the world to have hosted both the prestigious World Athletics Championships and the World Masters Athletics Championships outdoors. Furthermore, as the host of the 2017 World Masters Indoor Championships, Daegu made history as the first city to stage both indoor and outdoor Masters world championships—an achievement that reflects its steadfast commitment to the global athletics community.
In anticipation of WMAC Daegu 2026, the Organising Committee has launched a wide range of promotional and outreach efforts. Committee representatives have attended major international competitions in Sweden, the United States, Taipei, Harbin, Fukuoka, Chennai, and other key cities to engage with athletes and encourage participation. Additionally, the Committee is strengthening its global network through partnerships with organisations such as the China Athletics Association, Heilongjiang Athletics Federation, Japan Masters Athletics (JMA), Masters Athletics Federation of India (MAFI), Chinese Taipei Athletics Association (CTAA), and various foreign embassies in Korea.
Communication with global athletics fans continues actively through the official website and social media channels, while close collaboration with overseas missions and Korea’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs aims to provide efficient visa support for international participants. To enhance the on-site experience, a range of participant-friendly services will be provided, including free transportation cards for city travel and shuttle buses connecting the main stadium, official hotels, and major subway stations. More than 800 trained volunteers—along with global supporters and university promotion teams—will offer multilingual assistance to ensure that every participant feels welcomed and supported.
Adding to the event’s prestige, Olympic marathon gold medalist Hwang Young-cho has been appointed as the official ambassador, helping to raise global awareness and excitement for WMAC Daegu 2026. In July, a delegation from World Masters Athletics (WMA) conducted an on-site inspection of the venues, road courses, and accommodation facilities, providing highly positive feedback on Daegu’s preparedness and its athlete-friendly environment.
“The Championships are more than just a sporting event,” said Jin Ki-hoon, Secretary General of the Organising Committee. “They offer a unique opportunity for participants from around the world to immerse themselves in Daegu’s culture, art, cuisine, and charm. We warmly invite all UCLG ASPAC member cities to join us and be part of this global celebration.”
On-site inspection by WMA site visit team in July
Visit to Chinese Taipei Athletics Association (CTAA)
