World Athletics has published its 2025 annual report, which shows revenue growth, improved governance, and a positive outlook, even though the organization experienced a financial loss for the year. The federation, led by chairman Sebastian Coe, reported revenues of $69.3 million in 2025, an increase of $15 million from 2023. However, expenses rose to $79.4 million in 2025, compared to $70.6 million in 2023, leading to a $10 million loss. This is a smaller deficit than in previous non-Olympic years, such as 2022 and 2023, when losses were more than $16 million. World Athletics still has a strong financial position, with assets of $70.4 million and reserves of $36 million, which provide a buffer against future challenges.
The report also highlights increased public engagement, with three million additional social media followers added in 2025. Attendance at major events, including the World Indoor Championships, World Relays, and the World Championships in Tokyo, reached 619,288 spectators, the third-highest total since 2015. Revenue from these events exceeded $586 million, with returns averaging four times the investment and reaching up to five times in Tokyo, showing strong financial performance from event hosting.
World Athletics ranked first in the ASOIF (Association of Summer Olympic International Federations) international federation governance barometer, scoring 228 out of 240 points, a significant improvement from 113 out of 200 points in 2016. The federation has also made progress in increasing the representation of women in certified judges-arbiters, with 35% of the 1,208 certified individuals being women in 2025—double the 2024 figure. Women also accounted for 26% of new level I and II coaches in the Coaching Education and Certification System, reflecting broader efforts to promote gender equality in athletics.
Looking forward, World Athletics aims to continue its progress, building on the success of the Ultimate Championship and preparing for the 2027 World Championships in Beijing. The federation is also working on securing marketing rights for 2029. Coe noted that 2026 will be a crucial year, with major championships held every month, offering opportunities to promote the sport and strengthen partnerships. This strategy is expected to help sustain the federation's momentum and reinforce athletics' global presence.
World Athletics Reports Revenue Growth and Governance Progress Amid Financial Challenges
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