Daegu, with its rich experience hosting major global events like the World Athletics Championships Daegu 2011 and the World Masters Athletics Championships Indoor Daegu 2017, the first-ever indoor event in Asia, is set to host the 2026 World Masters Athletics Championships, the world’s first-ever hosting of both indoor and outdoor events, rekindling the excitement of athletes from around the world.
It will kick off with an opening ceremony on August 21, 2026 and will run for 13 days from August 22 to September 3, held across various venues in Daegu, including the Daegu Stadium (Main Stadium).Open to all athletes aged 35 and over, this event is expected to attract over 11,000 participants from more than 90 countries competing in 35 events (18 track, 11 field, and 6 road).
The Secretary-General of Local Organising Committee (L.O.C) of the WMAC Daegu 2026, Mr. Ki-hoon Chin, said, “Based on the successful hosting of the World Athletics Championships Daegu 2011 and the World Masters Athletics Championships Indoor Daegu 2017, we will ensure that the event is held at the highest level in all areas, including scale, event operations, accommodations, transportation, and volunteering.” He continued, “I am confident that this event will be a great opportunity to experience not only athletics but also the culture, art, food, and beauty of Daegu. I ask for the active interest and participation of the cities of UCLG ASPAC member countries, and I look forward to seeing you in Daegu, the ‘Mecca of World Athletics,’ in 2026.”
The World Masters Athletics Championships, governed by World Masters Athletics (WMA), is a cost-effective competition as athletes aged 35 and older fund their own participation. Cities in athletics-powerhouse regions such as Japan and Europe often vie to host this internationally recognised event, motivated by the regional economic benefits it brings through tourism, marketing, and various local impacts.
