New Delhi : New Delhi’s iconic Jawaharlal Nehru (JLN) Stadium is set to host the 12th edition of the World Para Athletics Championships from September 27 to October 5, 2025, marking the largest para-sport event ever held in India. The stadium has undergone a comprehensive ₹80-crore makeover to meet the international standards required for this global para-athletics showcase.
With a seating capacity of 60,000, JLN Stadium was originally built for the 1982 Asian Games and upgraded for the 2010 Commonwealth Games. This time, the renovations focus on creating a fully accessible and world-class venue for over 1,000 para-athletes from 104 nations. The transformation includes the installation of a cutting-edge Mondo synthetic track, enhanced accessibility for athletes and spectators, and upgraded supporting infrastructure to ensure an inclusive environment.
The championship program features a record 186 medal events—101 for men, 84 for women, and one mixed event—15 more than the previous edition held in Kobe, Japan. This increase reflects the growing scope of para-athletics globally. The event will witness participation from countries across continents, showcasing the resilience and determination of para-athletes.
Organizers emphasize that hosting this event is not just a sporting milestone but also a powerful statement on inclusivity and empowerment. The stadium’s modern facilities and accessibility upgrades are designed to inspire both participants and spectators, highlighting New Delhi’s emergence as a major center for parasport.
The World Para Athletics Championships in New Delhi also features a unique mascot named Viraaj, a young elephant with a blade prosthesis symbolizing strength, optimism, and resilience. The medals incorporate traditional Indian artistic motifs and Braille inscriptions to reflect inclusivity.
As India prepares to welcome the world’s top para-athletes, the upgraded JLN Stadium stands ready to become the heart of premier para-athletics competition, setting new benchmarks for hosting major international sporting events in the region.
This historic event will run from September 27 to October 5, 2025, and promises to be a memorable celebration of courage, athleticism, and unity for the global para-athlete community.
Discussion about this post