At a one-year countdown event held on 10 September in the Golden Hall of the National Stadium, commonly known as the Bird’s Nest, the emblem, mascot, and theme slogan for the World Athletics Championships Beijing 27 (WCH Beijing 27) were officially unveiled. The event marks a significant milestone in preparations for the championships, which will take place from 10 to 19 September 2027, and underscores Beijing’s capacity to stage major international sporting events.
The emblem, named “Jing Yue”, is centered on the Temple of Heaven and the Chinese character “Jing” (京). It draws on the expressive charm of Chinese calligraphy, engraving Beijing’s local identity while radiating the vibrant energy of athletics. This design choice not only celebrates the host city’s cultural heritage but also aligns with the dynamic spirit of the championships.
The mascot, “Jing Yan”, is inspired by “Yan’er”, the mascot of the 2015 edition of the championships. Modelled after the Beijing swift, it symbolizes “the return of the swift after 12 years”. The design subtly incorporates traditional Chinese kite patterns and the expressive eye makeup of Peking Opera, while a lightning-bolt dynamic adds a sense of speed. This blend of natural vitality, culture, art, and athletic competition nods to the 2015 event and brings Beijing’s rich cultural heritage vividly to life. The mascot’s connection to the previous championships highlights continuity and the city’s ongoing commitment to athletics.
The theme slogan, “Every Step Counts”, embodies the relentless competitive spirit that every step and every effort matters. It sends a warm yet resolute message to the world: on the road to excellence, every wholehearted effort holds extraordinary value. This slogan is poised to resonate with athletes and fans alike, emphasizing the importance of perseverance and dedication in sports.
In a video address, President of World Athletics Sebastian Coe noted that Beijing is the first city in the world to have successfully hosted both the Summer and Winter Olympics, with a remarkable record of staging world-class events. He said the World Championships Beijing 2015 produced many iconic moments, and that World Athletics firmly believes China will stage the 2027 edition of the Championships to the highest possible standard and deliver an unforgettable sporting spectacular for audiences across the globe. Coe’s endorsement reinforces confidence in Beijing’s organizational capabilities and the event’s potential to inspire a global audience.
The World Athletics Championships Beijing 27 will be held at the National Stadium from 10 to 19 September 2027. More than 2,000 athletes from over 200 countries and regions will gather at the Bird’s Nest for this grand athletics celebration. The unveiling of the emblem, mascot, and slogan not only builds anticipation but also signifies the event’s role in promoting international unity and sporting excellence. As the countdown continues, Beijing is set to welcome the world to a championships that promises to leave a lasting legacy. For more information, visit the official event page at World Athletics.
