For the first time ever, Ethiopia is set to host an international track and field meeting at the historic Addis Ababa Stadium.

This World Athletics Continental Tour debut is being hailed as a defining moment for African sporting sovereignty.

The transformation of the venue has been nothing short of extraordinary. World Athletics Competition Director, Pierce O’Callaghan, describes the rapid six-week preparation as the "miracle of Addis Ababa." O’Callaghan says this event represents "Africa helping itself."

By hosting elite competitions locally, the Ethiopian Athletics Federation is providing high-level world rankings and prize money to athletes right here on home soil.

Logistics have been carefully tuned for the athletes' peak performance. Ethiopian Athletics Federation president Commander Athlete Sileshi Sihin confirmed that the 10,000-metre races will kick off at 6:00 AM tomorrow.

Sileshi noted that "Ethiopia is a country of athletes." He explained the early start protects runners from the harsh sun and ensures they fit within the global two-hour broadcasting window. The main afternoon session will follow at 3:00 PM, putting a spotlight on the continent's rising short-distance stars.

The government views this event as a launchpad for a broader national vision. State Minister of Culture and Sports, Mekiyou Mohammed emphasized that Ethiopia is now moving toward using sport as a "full package."

The state minister highlighted that the rapid renovation of the stadium and its brand-new tracks are key to boosting the nation’s image and fostering sports tourism. He described the facility as a central pillar for the "New Ethiopia."

This Bronze Level meeting is just the first step on a ladder toward Gold status. As the world turns its eyes to the Addis Ababa track tomorrow, the message is clear: Africa is no longer just competing; it is leading.

More than 70 renowned international athletes are set to compete at the Addis Ababa Grand Prix 2026, marking a historic milestone.

Among the confirmed international stars are American Olympic champion Gabby Thomas, fellow U.S. Olympic gold medalist Dalilah Muhammad, France’s world-class hurdler Cyréna Samba-Mayela, and Africa’s fastest man Ferdinand Omanyala, among others.

Spectator gates open tomorrow at 2:00 PM for the main afternoon session. For live updates from the track, stay tuned to our digital platforms. This is Pulse of Africa - changing the narrative, one stride at a time.