World Athletics Championship is a biennial competition, organised by World Athletics (formerly IAAF) that crowns the world’s best track and field athletes across 32 disciplines. Alongside the Olympics, it’s the highest-level international competition in senior outdoor track and field.

For athletes who’ve clinched their place at the World Championships, it’s like the pinnacle of their careers. The honour of gracing the track in their national vest is one they’ve earned through years of hard work and dedication.

The event also serves to keep track and field on people’s radar, as it’s not an Olympic-only sport that only happens every four years. And it’s where you can witness the very best and see the raw, explosive power of an athlete in action.

Middle and long distance races – such as the 800m and 1500m, or the marathon – are classic tests of endurance. Throws – the javelin, hammer and shot put – are a test of strength, while relays require flawless, synchronised transfers of the baton. Combined events – such as the heptathlon and decathlon – are true tests of all-round ability, with the winner of each discipline scoring the most points.

The new 2023 World Athletics Championships will feature fields of eight to 16 athletes per event based primarily on world rankings with semifinals and finals for all events on the track and field stadium. In addition, reigning Olympic champions and the winners of all Diamond League season events are guaranteed spots at the meet.