Bhubaneswar, May 27: Odisha has secured the hosting rights for the prestigious Asian Indoor Athletics Championships 2027, marking another major milestone in the state’s journey towards becoming a leading international sports destination.
The decision was finalised during the Asian Athletics Council meeting held in Hong Kong, reflecting growing global confidence in Odisha’s sporting infrastructure and event management capabilities. Chandigarh has also been selected to host the Asian Relays Championship in 2028.
Reacting to the announcement, Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi said the achievement is a moment of immense pride for both Odisha and the country. He noted that the recognition further strengthens Odisha’s reputation as a trusted venue for global sporting events and showcases the state’s long-term commitment to promoting athletics and sports excellence.
The Chief Minister emphasised that Odisha’s consistent investment in modern sports infrastructure, athlete development, and international event hosting has helped position the state prominently on the global sports map. He described the championship as another landmark achievement in Odisha’s growing legacy in world sports.
The upcoming continental championship is expected to attract leading athletes, officials, and sports enthusiasts from across Asia, providing a significant boost to sports tourism, hospitality, and local economic activity.
The announcement also comes at a time when Odisha is rapidly expanding its global sporting footprint. The state has already been awarded the hosting rights for the World Athletics Indoor Championships 2028, which will be organised at the world-class Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneswar.
Over the years, Odisha has successfully hosted several major national and international sporting events, particularly in hockey and athletics, earning praise for its infrastructure, crowd support, and organisational efficiency.
Sports experts believe hosting consecutive international championships will not only strengthen India’s athletics ecosystem but also inspire greater youth participation in sports across the region.
