What Do You Need to Know About the World Athletics Championships?

The World Athletics Championships in Tokyo will showcase some of the finest athletes from around the globe, competing for prestigious titles over nine thrilling days. This event marks a significant return to international athletics for Japan, following the pandemic-affected 2020 Olympics. With a total prize fund of £6.2 million and numerous British athletes aiming for medals, the championships promise excitement and fierce competition.

Last updated: 21 September 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways

The World Athletics Championships will take place from 13-21 September 2023.
Key British athletes include Keely Hodgkinson, Josh Kerr, and Katarina Johnson-Thompson.
There is a total prize fund of $8.5 million (£6.2 million).
Tokyo is hosting its first major sporting event since the postponed 2020 Olympics.
Extreme heat is expected during the championships, with temperatures likely exceeding 30°C.

Event Overview

The World Athletics Championships are a significant event in the athletics calendar, bringing together elite athletes from various disciplines. With the last championships held in 2023, this year's event at the Japan National Stadium is particularly anticipated due to the high stakes and the backdrop of Tokyo, a city that exemplifies sporting excellence.

This year’s championships will feature a variety of events, including sprints, throws, jumps, and distance races, with athletes vying for medals in each category. The Tokyo stadium will provide a stunning setting for these competitions, having previously hosted the Olympics, despite the challenges posed by the pandemic.

British Contenders and Medal Hopes

Great Britain has a strong contingent of athletes competing, many of whom are fresh off impressive performances at the Olympics and Diamond League events. Notable participants include:

Keely Hodgkinson: The Olympic 800m champion is a hot favourite after running the fastest time of the year recently.
Josh Kerr: The men's 1500m Olympic silver medallist and defending world champion is looking to defend his title.
Katarina Johnson-Thompson: The heptathlete aims to reclaim her world title after an injury-affected season.
Matthew Hudson-Smith: With a consistent record in the men’s 400m, he is also a strong contender for gold.
Georgia Hunter Bell: Transitioning from the 1500m, she aims for success in the 800m alongside Hodgkinson.

Historical Context and Recent Performance

Great Britain's athletics team had a remarkable showing at the last Olympics, achieving their best medal haul in 40 years, with a total of 10 medals at the World Championships. This legacy sets a high bar for the current athletes, who are keen to replicate and build on this success.

In 2023, GB also finished seventh in the medal table, which included two golds, three silvers, and five bronzes. This year’s championship presents another opportunity for British athletes to shine on the world stage.

Global Stars to Watch

The competition will feature several globally renowned athletes, making for an electrifying atmosphere. Some notable names include:

Noah Lyles: The reigning Olympic champion is aiming for his third consecutive global 100m title.
Armand Duplantis: The Swedish pole vault sensation is looking to break his own world record while claiming another title.
Faith Kipyegon: The Kenyan athlete is the favourite for the 1500m gold, boasting an impressive record at global championships.
Jakob Ingebrigtsen: The Norwegian distance runner is eager to finally win the elusive 1500m title.
Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce: The Jamaican sprinting legend is chasing more medals as she nears the end of her illustrious career.

Prize Money and Incentives

The total prize money for the championships stands at $8.5 million (£6.2 million), with gold medal winners set to receive $70,000 (£52,000). Additionally, athletes who break world records during the event can earn a substantial bonus of $100,000 (£74,000). This financial incentive adds extra motivation for competitors to perform at their best.

Schedule and Viewing Information

The championships will run from 13 to 21 September 2023. UK viewers can follow the action through various BBC channels, including BBC One and BBC Two, with live coverage also available on BBC iPlayer and the BBC Sport website. Morning sessions will air overnight in the UK due to Tokyo's eight-hour time difference from British Summer Time (BST).

Must-Watch Events

Several events are particularly noteworthy for fans and spectators:

The mixed 4x400m final on the opening night, showcasing GB's relay team.
Keely Hodgkinson in the women's 800m, where she is the clear favourite.
Noah Lyles in both the 100m and 200m, defending his titles.
The men's pole vault, featuring Armand Duplantis aiming for a new world record.
Faith Kipyegon in the women's 1500m, as she seeks her fifth consecutive title.

Environmental Considerations

With extreme heat expected during the championships, temperatures may exceed 30°C. Athletes will need to adapt their strategies and hydration practices to cope with the demanding conditions. This is particularly significant for endurance events such as marathons and distance races, where heat can greatly affect performance.

Conclusion

The World Athletics Championships in Tokyo present a thrilling opportunity for athletes to showcase their talents on an international stage, amidst a backdrop of history and competition. As fans eagerly await the opening ceremonies, the focus will undoubtedly be on the performances of star athletes and the potential for new records. The blend of established champions and emerging talents promises an unforgettable event for athletics enthusiasts worldwide. Who will rise to the occasion and etch their names in history?

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FAQs

When do the World Athletics Championships take place?

The World Athletics Championships will be held from 13 to 21 September 2023 in Tokyo, Japan.

Where can I watch the championships in the UK?

UK viewers can watch the championships on BBC One and BBC Two, with live coverage available on BBC iPlayer and the BBC Sport website.

What is the prize money for the World Athletics Championships?

The total prize money for the championships is $8.5 million (£6.2 million), with gold medal winners receiving $70,000 (£52,000).

Who are the key British athletes to watch?

Notable British athletes include Keely Hodgkinson, Josh Kerr, Katarina Johnson-Thompson, and Matthew Hudson-Smith, all of whom have strong medal prospects.

How does the time difference affect viewing times?

Tokyo is eight hours ahead of British Summer Time (BST), meaning morning sessions will air overnight in the UK, while evening sessions will run from morning to early afternoon.