More than 100 UK top athletes have written directly to Prime Minister Keir Starmer, urging government support for London’s bid to stage the 2029 World Athletics Championships.
In an open letter published today, Olympic champions, global medallists, and rising stars speak with one voice, urging the Government to support the bid to host the championships at London Stadium. Together, these athletes have amassed over 750 medals at international event, more than 300 of them gold.
Among the signatories are some of the biggest names in athletics history, including Sir Mo Farah, Keely Hodgkinson, Dame Kelly Holmes, Jonathan Edwards, Dame Jessica Ennis-Hill, Paula Radcliffe, Katarina Johnson-Thompson, Dina Asher-Smith, and Daley Thompson.
The athletes’ endorsement strengthens the London 2029 campaign, which is led by Athletic Ventures, a joint venture between UK Athletics, London Marathon Events, and the Great Run Company. The bid proposes a world-class championships hosted at the London Stadium, requiring a one-time public funding injection of $56 million in 2028.
A recent feasibility study projects that the event could generate an economic and social impact exceeding $500 million across the UK.
“This is the moment to deliver something extraordinary,” said Hugh Brasher, Event Director of the London Marathon and co-founder of Athletic Ventures.
“London 2029 is not a risk; it’s about return on investment for the UK. Generations of athletes understand the inspirational power of a home championships, but this goes beyond medals. It’s a vision for what this country can achieve.”
“With government support in 2028, we will deliver the greatest World Championships yet: commercially robust, community powered, and globally resonant. The championships will deliver more than $500 million in economic and community impact across the UK. The time to act is now.” Brasher added.
However, the athletes warn that without swift government backing, the UK risks missing out on this extraordinary opportunity. Their letter reminds ministers that hosting home events creates “once-in-a-lifetime” moments for athletes and fans alike, and leaves legacies that “live on in communities, schools, and families for years to come.”
“This bid roots itself in credibility and ambition,” said Jack Buckner, CEO of UK Athletics and co-founder of Athletic Ventures.
“When our greatest athletes unite with one message, we see home support’s power and must respond.”
“With London 2029, we have the chance to deliver a World Championships that lifts the nation, inspires the next generation, and showcases Britain at its very best. We’re ready. Now we need the Government to stand with us,” Buckner added.
The formal bidding process for the 2029 championships is due to begin this summer. Organizers urge the Government to commit funding in the coming weeks to secure the event for the UK.
London last hosted the World Athletics Championships in 2017, and the athletes and organizers hope to bring the world’s best track and field competitors back to the capital in 2029.
