The future of global athletics will be on full display when the World Athletics Under-20 Championships return to Eugene, Oregon, from 5 to 9 August.
Hosted at the iconic Hayward Field, the championships will bring together the world's most talented young athletes for five days of world-class competition and unforgettable moments.
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Known as "TrackTown USA", Eugene has become one of athletics' most respected destinations. Having successfully hosted the World Athletics U20 Championships in 2014 and the World Athletics Championships in 2022, the city is once again preparing to welcome the sport's brightest rising stars to one of the fastest tracks in the world.
The 2026 edition is expected to be the largest in the history of the championships. More than 1 800 athletes from 147 member federations have been entered, surpassing the previous participation record set at Lima 2024. The milestone is particularly significant as the competition celebrates 40 years of the World U20 Championships.
A STEPPING STONE
As always, the championships will serve as an important stepping stone for tomorrow's Olympic and world champions. Legends such as Noah Lyles, Joshua Cheptegei, Yulimar Rojas and Nina Kennedy all competed at the U20 level before achieving success on the biggest stages in athletics. Oregon 2026 offers another opportunity to identify the sport's next generation of stars.
Several athletes arrive in Eugene carrying strong credentials. Jamaica's Shanoya Douglas enters the championships as one of the leading names in the sprint events after establishing herself as the world U20 leader in both the women's 100m and 200m. Fellow Jamaican Gary Card will also be among the athletes to watch after his success in Lima two years ago.
The host nation will field an equally exciting team. Olympic 4x400m champion Quincy Wilson headlines a talented American squad that includes double US U20 sprint champion Tate Taylor and twins Mia and Mariah Maxwell, who dominated the US U20 Championships. Their performances are expected to generate considerable local interest throughout the week.
HIGH EXPECTATIONS FOR SOUTH AFRICA
For South African athletics fans, the championships present another opportunity to measure the country's emerging talent against the world's best.
Following the success of Bayanda Walaza, Bradley Nkoana and Udeme Okon at Lima 2024, expectations will be high that South Africa's next generation can continue making an impact on the international stage.
A total of 46 events will be contested at Oregon 2026, including the introduction of the mixed 4x100m relay, which makes its World Athletics U20 Championships debut ahead of its planned inclusion at the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games. The addition reflects the sport's continued evolution and commitment to innovation.
With packed entry lists, emerging stars and the electric atmosphere of Hayward Field, all the ingredients are in place for a memorable championship. As the world's best junior athletes chase medals, records and international recognition, Oregon 2026 promises to provide a fascinating glimpse into the future of athletics.
-------------- DAY 2 – Friday, 7 August ------------
3:00am – Women’s Discuss Throw Final
4:13am - Women’s Long Jump Final
4:40am – Women’s Shot Put Final
4:44am – Men’s 400m Semifinal
5:08am – Women’s 400m Semiffinal
5:35am – Women’s 100m Final
5:50am – Men’s 100m Final