India is gearing up to host what Paralympic Committee of India (PCI) President Devendra Jhajharia envisions as the "best-ever" World Para Athletics Championships. The event, scheduled from September 26 to October 5, 2025, will mark India's first time hosting this prestigious global competition. Jhajharia, a decorated Paralympian himself, emphasizes that no effort is being spared to ensure the championships are a resounding success.
The World Para Athletics Championships will take place at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in New Delhi. The stadium, previously used for the 2010 Commonwealth Games, is undergoing significant upgrades, including a brand-new Mondotrack surface, which is known for enhancing performance and reducing the risk of injuries. The venue is expected to be ready a month before the competition begins.
India recently unveiled the logo and mascot for the New Delhi 2025 World Para Athletics Championships, signaling the commencement of the "100 Days to Go" countdown. The mascot, named Viraaj, is a spirited young elephant with a blade prosthesis, embodying strength, optimism, and resilience. The logo reflects India's rich heritage, the spirit of para-athletics, and the energy of the host city.
The event is expected to be the largest para-sporting event ever held in India, with over 2,500 athletes and officials from more than 100 countries participating. There will be 186 medal events, consisting of 101 for men, 84 for women, and one mixed event.
Several key figures are involved in ensuring the success of the event. Alongside President Devendra Jhajharia, the PCI leadership includes Jayawant Gundu Hamanawar (Secretary General), Rahul Swami (CEO), and Sunil Pradhan (Treasurer). Dr. Satyapal Singh is the Head Coach of the Indian Para Athletics Team. These individuals are working together to ensure the event meets the highest standards of accessibility, performance, and inclusivity.
The World Para Athletics Championships are held every two years and are considered the most significant event in the world for a single sports discipline outside of the Paralympics. New Delhi will be the fourth Asian city to host the event, following Doha (2015), Dubai (2019), and Kobe (2024).
The unveiling ceremony in Delhi was attended by various dignitaries, including Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, Education Minister Ashish Sood, Member of Parliament and brand ambassador Kangana Ranaut, and Secretary of the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports Hari Ranjan Rao. Chief Minister Gupta expressed pride in Delhi hosting the event and acknowledged the courage and determination of para-athletes.