“While some of these discussions will continue for other editions of the event, the World Athletics Council has decided not to award the Championships to an alternative host this year due to lack of essential planning and preparation time required to cater for both elite and mass participation race elements,” said track and Field governing body.
Initially scheduled for late September 2025 in San Diego, the event promised to combine world-class competition with mass races, including a half marathon, 5K, and mile run. Organisers aimed to attract up to 50,000 participants, with significant economic benefits expected for the city. However, despite securing a $3 million title sponsor, the local organising committee struggled to meet the financial and logistical demands required to host a global event of this scale.
World Athletics engaged in detailed discussions with San Diego’s team but ultimately agreed to move on after the city’s inability to deliver the necessary groundwork. The organisation also held talks with other potential hosts but concluded that the tight timeline made it impossible to ensure a successful championship this year.
Instead, World Athletics will concentrate on the 2026 World Road Running Championships, set to take place in Copenhagen from September 19-20. The 2026 event already shows strong interest, with over 100,000 people expressing enthusiasm for the 35,000 half marathon spots available.
Tracy Sundlun, CEO of San Diego 25, expressed disappointment but pledged full cooperation to ensure a smooth transition of the event to a new venue. World Athletics thanked the San Diego team for their efforts and hopes to return the championships to the city in the future.
With the 2025 edition cancelled, athletes and fans now look forward to Copenhagen 2026, where the World Road Running Championships aim to deliver a spectacular blend of elite competition and mass participation on a global stage.