Uganda’s bid to qualify sprinters and middle‑distance runners for the 2026 World Athletics U20 Championships in Eugene, USA, has been jolted by the relocation of two major national events from Mandela National Stadium, Namboole.
The Akii Bua Memorial Track and Field Meet on June 13 and the National Track and Field Championships on June 26–27 will now be staged at Uganda Christian University’s cinder track, following intensified renovation works at Namboole ahead of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations. Uganda Athletics confirmed the change in an official communication.
Athletes and coaches voiced concern that the switch from Namboole’s tartan track to a slower cinder surface could undermine qualification chances. The tartan track not only offers faster racing conditions but also supports electronic timing systems, which are mandatory for internationally recognized performances.
Officials are expected to ensure electronic timing is installed at the UCU venue to safeguard athletes’ qualification prospects. With the World U20 Championships set for August 4–9 in Eugene, Oregon, the upcoming competitions remain vital opportunities for Uganda’s young talents to secure their places on the global stage despite the venue setback.
