Athletics Kenya Unveil 2026 Calendar as Early Preparations Begin for Commonwealth Games

Faith Kipyegon, Emmanuel Wanyonyi and Beatrice Chebet

Athletics Kenya Unveil 2026 Calendar as Early Preparations Begin for Commonwealth Games

Abigael Wafula 15:09 - 04.11.2025

Athletics Kenya has unveiled an early 2026 Track and Field calendar to give athletes a stronger competitive buildup ahead of next season's major championships.

Athletics Kenya (AK) has officially released its 2026 Track and Field weekend calendar, signalling an early and structured preparation phase for athletes ahead of next year’s major championships.

Speaking through a statement dated Monday, 3 November 2025, the federation confirmed that the season will kick off with an open meet in Mumias on November 7 and 8, 2025, marking the earliest start to a competitive season in recent years.

The move is designed to give Kenyan athletes a longer competitive runway as the country prepares for the 2026 Commonwealth Games set for Glasgow, Scotland.

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According to Athletics Kenya, the calendar has been tailored to allow both elite and upcoming athletes access to consistent, high-quality competition throughout the buildup period.

2026 Athletics Weekend Meet Calendar

The 2026 Track and Field season will feature six weekend meets, four open to all athletes through registration, and two invitational-only premium meets reserved for top performers.

Athletics Kenya noted that the mixed format will ensure a progressive competition structure, allowing athletes to transition from regular meets to higher-calibre, championship-style races.

Athletics Kenya Weekend Meets: Full 2026 Track and Field Weekend Calendar

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7–8 November 2025: 1st AK Track and Field Open Weekend Meet – Mumias Sports Complex

16–17 January 2026: 2nd AK Track and Field Open Weekend Meet – Thika Stadium

14–16 March 2026: 3rd AK Track and Field Open Weekend Meet – Kapsabet Stadium

27–28 March 2026: 4th AK Track and Field Open Weekend Meet – Afraha Stadium, Nakuru

8–9 May 2026: 1st AK Premium Weekend Meet (Invite Only) – Nyayo Stadium, Nairobi

29–30 May 2026: 2nd AK Premium Weekend Meet (Invite Only) – Ulinzi Sports Complex

The first four competitions will be accessible to athletes nationwide, allowing emerging talents to chase qualification marks, secure national ranking, and build competitive form.

The final two meetings will bring together Kenya’s top-tier athletes and invited international competitors, offering a championship-level test just weeks before global duty.

In their statement, Athletics Kenya emphasised their commitment to providing a well-structured platform that nurtures talent and sharpens elite athletes for upcoming international assignments.

The federation noted that the Track and Field Series is part of a larger strategy aimed at reclaiming and defending Kenya’s dominance on the world stage.

“The 2026 Track and Field Series will not only enhance athlete preparedness for the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow but also strengthen the country’s dominance in athletics by offering consistent, high-quality competition opportunities throughout the season,” read part of the communication.

The early release of the calendar also gives coaches and training camps time to properly plan athlete workloads, rest cycles, and targeted peak performances.

With Kenya expected to field a strong squad across distances, hurdles, throws, and sprints, the extended season may offer a decisive advantage.

As the 2026 cycle officially begins, all eyes now turn to Mumias in early November, where the country’s next generation of stars will line up chasing fast times and a ticket to Glasgow.