(Handout via Xinhua Daily)

Jiangsu will host major sports events in 2025, including the World Athletics Indoor Championships in Nanjing, marking the first time for China to host this premium indoor event, according to the sports events work conference held in Jiangyin City on September 25.

The year 2023 was a period of recovery and growth for sports events in Jiangsu, with 22 international and 131 national events held throughout the year. In 2024, Jiangsu has already hosted 81 national events and 97 provincial youth events.

Since 2023, Jiangsu has successfully hosted major events in badminton, taekwondo, and track and field. Notably, the 2023 BWF Sudirman Cup generated a total box office revenue of 34 million yuan, with nearly 100,000 spectators attending. Both figures set new records for similar domestic events.

At the grassroots level, sports events have also flourished in Jiangsu, with 2,776 public sports events held in the first half of this year. Rural areas stood out with popular events like football and basketball matches.

Jiangsu has also promoted public sports activities such as the “Walking Along the Grand Canal” initiative. The Grand Canal, an ancient waterway system recognized as the UNESCO world heritage site, now plays a new role in supporting Jiangsu’s sports development. The Grand Canal sports series featured marathon, football, cycling, and a triathlon. A total of 27 events were held last year, attracting over 200,000 participants, setting new records in terms of outreach and number of events since the series began.