WA President Coe Meets with Governor Koike: "Inspiring dreams in the next generation”

Today, on Kids’ Athletics Day, World Athletics President Sebastian Coe, Tokyo Governor Yuriko Koike and Mitsugi Ogata, President of both the Japan Association of Athletics Federations (JAAF) and WCH Tokyo 25, came together to reaffirm their commitment to making this year’s Championships a landmark event that will inspire and empower children around the world.

Governor Yuriko Koike stated, "The countdown has truly begun. With just four months to go until the World Athletics Championships, excitement in Tokyo is growing by the day. Ticket sales have been very strong." She expressed her commitment to further accelerating preparations in close cooperation with the World Athletics Championships Tokyo 25 Local Organising Committee.

She also emphasised Tokyo’s efforts to engage future generations, saying, "In partnership with the Local Organising Committee, Tokyo is implementing various initiatives for children, including inviting them to watch the event, offering hands-on athletic experiences at the Japan National Stadium, and involving them in the operation of the event. We aim to make this Championship a memorable one that inspires dreams in children."

©Tokyo Metropolitan Government

World Athletics President Sebastian Coe expressed his appreciation, stating, “Through regular updates and on-site visits, I am pleased to see that preparations are progressing smoothly.”

He reaffirmed his commitment to the event, saying, “I am more determined than ever to ensure that the World Athletics Championships Tokyo 25 become one of the world’s most significant sporting events of the year, engaging younger generations in the process.”

He also praised the Baton Project, noting, “I understand that the initiative in Tokyo involves approximately 1,400 schools and 600,000 students. It is a deeply meaningful and truly commendable effort.”

©Tokyo Metropolitan Government

JAAF and WCH Tokyo 25 President Mitsugi Ogata shared his aspirations, stating, “We want every resident of Tokyo, and people across Japan, to experience every thrilling and ‘SUGOI’ moment of the World Athletics Championships. I hope that especially for children—the future generation—Tokyo 2025 becomes a catalyst for their growth and transformation.”

He also introduced a symbolic gesture as part of the Baton Project, saying, “Today, I brought one of the batons that will be delivered to every elementary school in Tokyo. This year’s Kids’ Athletics theme is ‘Relay’, and this initiative marks an important first step in bringing dreams to children through our shared efforts. Together, the three of us entrust this baton with dreams and hope for the next generation.”

©Tokyo Metropolitan Government

The World Athletics Championships Tokyo 25 will be held from 13 to 21 September 2025, with the Japan National Stadium serving as the main venue.