President William Ruto welcomed the decision, describing the Championships as "coming home" and calling the successful bid a victory for generations of Kenyan athletes who have helped establish the country as a global force in track and road running.
Nairobi defeated London and Rome in the race to host the 2029 edition, while Munich was selected to stage the 2031 Championships. Kenya had previously missed out on hosting the 2025 event, which was awarded to Tokyo.
World Athletics president Lord Coe described Kenya's bid as "compelling and emotional" when he announced the decision in Budapest. Kenya is the second-most successful nation in World Championships history, with 72 gold medals, behind only the United States. The country has also won 38 Olympic gold medals, largely through its dominance in middle and long-distance events.
Coe highlighted Kenya's contribution to athletics and recognized stars including two-time Olympic champion Eliud Kipchoge, who supported the bid, 800m world record holder David Rudisha and multiple world and Olympic champion Faith Kipyegon.
Kenya's passionate athletics following was another factor in its successful bid. World Athletics research found that 68% of Kenyans surveyed had a high level of interest in the sport, compared with a global average of 39%.
Infrastructure improvements also strengthened Kenya's case. The 48,000-capacity Kasarani Stadium is undergoing major upgrades and will host matches during the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations, which Kenya will co-host with Tanzania and Uganda.
Kenya's organizers also highlighted Nairobi's hospitality and tourism infrastructure, including its established experience hosting major international events.
The government provided financial and security guarantees as part of the successful bid. Current estimates put the government's contribution at $78 million, with sponsorship expected to provide additional funding.
The road to 2029 will bring logistical challenges, including transport, stadium access, ticket pricing and continued infrastructure development. Organizers will also face scrutiny over previous overcrowding at Kasarani and concerns surrounding preparations for the 2027 AFCON.
Kenya's athletics record will also remain under attention because of recent doping cases involving athletes.
Still, officials involved in the bid believe the country can deliver a successful Championships. For Nairobi, the event represents a major opportunity to bring the world's biggest athletics competition to Africa for the first time and showcase Kenya's deep connection with the sport.
