Indian Athletic Awards 2026: AFI To Host Felicitation Ceremony In New Delhi On June 20

The Athletics Federation of India will host the first Indian Athletic Awards on 20 June 2026 in Delhi. The event aims to recognise excellence in Indian athletics. It will honour current and former athletes. It will also celebrate coaches, officials and other key contributors.

The awards have been planned as a broad platform. It will honour mentors, technical officials, state associations and sponsors. The AFI also wants to recognise other stakeholders in athletics. Their combined efforts support India’s growing presence in global competitions. The ceremony will highlight this collective progress.

Most leading Indian athletes, past and present, are expected. The AFI expects a major gathering of the athletics community. Organisers see the event as a boost for morale. Young and emerging talents may gain fresh motivation. It aims to deepen a culture of recognition and inspiration.

Ten categories to celebrate excellence

The ceremony will feature ten award categories, covering performances and support roles. These include Lifetime Achievement honours and annual awards. Categories for best male and female athletes are listed. There are also awards for coaching, officiating, state work and institutional support. Full details are given below.

Category

• Best Male Athlete of the Year: 2025
• Best Female Athlete of the Year: 2025
• Best Coach of the Year: 2025
• Lifetime Achievement Athletics Award (3 Awards)
• Best State Association of the Year: 2025
• Best Technical Official of the Year: 2025
• Best State Supporting Athletics
• Organisation supporting Athletics
• Partner supporting Athletics

AFI President Mr Bahadur Singh Sagoo praised recent progress. He said Indian athletes have delivered strong global performances. He added the awards will celebrate medal winners and support teams. He stressed the role of coaches, officials and institutions. They work consistently to strengthen athletics across the country.

Support for robust sporting culture

AFI Senior Vice President Ms Anju Bobby George underlined broad recognition. She said the ceremony honours commitment at every level. This includes newcomers, champions and their support networks. She noted every effort helps build a strong sporting culture. She said Indian athletics is set for an engaging chapter.

Olympic and World Championships medallist Neeraj Chopra supported the awards. He said such initiatives are extremely important for young athletes. Recognising hard work of athletes, coaches and support staff matters. He believes this motivates the entire sporting system. It can inspire the next generation to dream bigger.