Athletes during a previous AK track and field meeting/ TEDDY MULEIAthletics Kenya has announced an early start for the 2026 track and field season in a bold move aimed at preparing athletes for another dominant campaign.
The new season bursts into life on Friday with a two-day first AK weekend meet at the Mumias Sports Complex.
In a statement, AK said the decision is part of a strategic plan to sharpen athletes ahead of the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Scotland.
“Athletics Kenya will kickstart the 2026 track and field season with its open meet in Mumias on November 7 and 8, 2025, officially setting the stage for the 2026 track and field season,” the statement read.
“The season will include both open and invitational meets as athletes prepare for the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow.”
In Glasgow, Team Kenya will look to mount a strong charge and surpass their performance from Birmingham 2022, where the country finished third in athletics with 20 medals (six gold, five silver and nine bronze).
Australia led the standings with 25 medals, while hosts England were second with 34.
Kenya’s gold medalists in Birmingham include Africa’s fastest man, Ferdinand Omanyala (100m), Wyclife Kinyamal (800m), Abraham Kibiwot (3,000m steeplechase), Mary Moraa (800m), Beatrice Chebet (5,000m) and Jackline Chepkoech (3,000m steeplechase).
The series will feature two premium, invitation-only meetings designed to attract elite competition.
“The first four meetings of the series will be open events, with participants subject to registration through a provided link,” the statement said.
“The final two legs of the series will be premium events, subject to invitation only.”
Mumias is the opener and first open meet, followed by Thika (Stadium) on January 16–17.
The circuit will then head to Kapsabet Stadium on March 14–16 before rounding off the open meetings at Afraha Stadium on March 27–28.
The two premium meets are slated for the Nyayo Stadium on May 8–9 and the Ulinzi Sports Complex on May 29–30, promising top-tier competition and national ranking points.
The federation reiterated its unwavering commitment to nurturing a competitive environment for the country’s athletes.
“Athletics Kenya remains committed to providing a structured and competitive platform for athletes ahead of major international championships,” AK emphasised.
“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.”
