Jamaican sprint icon Usain Bolt has been announced as the “Ultimate Legend” for the first edition of the World Athletics Ultimate Championship, set to take place in Budapest from September 11-13, 2026.
The new season-ending event is designed to bring together the world’s top-ranked track and field athletes in head-to-head clashes to determine the “Ultimate Champion.” It comes as the sport continues to push for innovation, much like Bolt’s own career, which saw him break multiple world records, win 19 senior global titles, and deliver countless unforgettable moments on the track.
In his new role, Bolt will partner with World Athletics to promote the event globally. His appointment follows last month’s announcement of pole vault world record-holder Mondo Duplantis as the inaugural “Ultimate Star.” It is the first time Bolt has taken on such a position within athletics.
“The idea behind the World Athletics Ultimate Championship is brilliant: the absolute best of the best facing off against each other – all the major global stars, big money, even bigger personalities, no excuses – to see who gets bragging rights as the Ultimate Champion. Let’s just say I would have loved to be competing in this box-office championship,” Bolt said.
“I’m honoured to take on the role of Ultimate Legend to help spread the word, as athletics remains a huge part of my life. I saw our sport go through many changes during my time on the track and it’s important that athletics continues to innovate. This new global championship will help to showcase and grow track and field and its incredible stars.”
World Athletics President Sebastian Coe said the title was fitting for one of the sport’s most enduring figures.
“The title of Ultimate Legend is fitting for one of the true icons of our sport. Usain transcends athletics. He continues to elevate the profile of the sport and inspire athletes around the globe, proving what is possible – on and off the field of play. As we look forward – developing new ways to showcase the sport and discovering new stars – it is important to also look back and recognise the trailblazers who have paved the way and captured the imaginations of generations of athletics fans.”
Hungary’s Secretary of State for Sports Dr. Ádám Schmidt added that hosting the championship would be significant for the country.
“Similar to other major international sporting events in Hungary, one of our main goals with hosting the Ultimate Championship is to ensure that by watching the fantastic competitions of the very best athletes live, as many of our compatriots as possible can gain experiences that will inspire them to commit to regular sports themselves.
“It is a great pleasure and honour for us that the best of the best will visit us, not only on the track, but also beyond it. Usain Bolt is a special figure of the athletics family who can inspire young people all over the world. I am confident that with his help, the Ultimate Championship will be just as successful and popular as the 2023 World Championships in Budapest were.”
The competition will feature Olympic and world champions going up against Wanda Diamond League winners and other top performers across three days of action at the National Athletics Centre. Twenty-six athletes have already qualified as reigning individual Olympic champions, with more to secure spots at the upcoming World Athletics Championships Tokyo 25 – an event Bolt will attend as a guest of World Athletics.
During the Tokyo meet, which runs from September 13-21, Bolt is expected to attend select evening sessions at the Japan National Stadium and make a special appearance as part of his role in promoting the Budapest championship.
The Ultimate Championship will serve as the sport’s major season finale every year, ensuring a global championship that carries weight for athletes, fans, broadcasters, and media. It will also stand as the next flagship outdoor track and field event following the World Athletics Championships Tokyo 25.
