Historic Moment as Addis Ababa Hosts Its First-Ever World Athletics Grand Prix Today
Addis Ababa, April 18, 2026 (FMC) — Addis Ababa is hosting its first-ever one-day World Athletics Grand Prix today at Addis Ababa Stadium, marking a major milestone as Ethiopia stages a World Athletics Continental Tour Bronze-level meeting for the first time.
Ethiopia secured the opportunity to host the international competition in February 2026, paving the way for today’s landmark event. The inclusion of the Addis Ababa Grand Prix in the annual calendar of World Athletics follows close engagement with the global governing body.
During a two-day working visit to Ethiopia in early February 2026, Pierce O’Callaghan, Head of Competition Management at World Athletics, affirmed the country’s readiness to host major international competitions, citing its growing capacity and infrastructure.
All necessary preparations for the event have been finalized, with the competition structured in two segments: one exclusively for Ethiopian athletes and another featuring international participants.
Among the prominent athletes competing are American sprint star Gabby Thomas and Kenyan sprinter Ferdinand Omanyala, both of whom arrived in Addis Ababa ahead of the event.
More than 70 athletes from across Africa, Europe, Asia, and North America are taking part in the competition. Participants have been training at Addis Ababa Stadium since mid-week, with the venue now fully renovated and ready to host the event.
The competition is supported by modern technology, including live streaming on organizers’ platforms, enhancing its global reach. Officials say the event is expected to play a significant role in promoting Ethiopia internationally and boosting sports tourism.
As a Bronze-level meet under the Continental Tour, the Addis Ababa Grand Prix also offers substantial prize money for top-performing athletes, according to World Athletics.
In 2026, Ethiopia joins countries such as Kenya, Botswana, South Africa, the Republic of Korea, Lesotho, Oman, and Saudi Arabia in hosting new events under the World Athletics Continental Tour series.