INFORMATION PORTAL OF THE MARSHAL'S OFFICE OF THE KUJAWSKO-POMORSKIE Region IN TORUŃ

World Athletics has declared the World Indoor Championships Kujawy Pomorze 2026 (WIC) the best indoor championships in history. Today’s (March 27) press conference summarizing the world’s premier athletics event was attended by Marshal Piotr Całbecki, WIC Director Krzysztof Wolsztyński, the Marshal’s Plenipotentiary for WIC organization Beata Sawińska, representatives of One Sport, coordinators of the “50 Relays of Kujawy and Pomorze” initiative and the fan zone, as well as members of relay teams from Trzebcz Szlachecki (Chełmno County) and Lubraniec (Włocławek County).

“Record-breaking sporting performances confirmed that Poland is one of the global centres of athletics,” said Marshal Piotr Całbecki. “This event shows that the Kujawsko-Pomorskie region not only knows how to organize a top-level sporting event, but does so by engaging the entire community and inspiring younger generations. Outstanding athletes, incredible fans, and the relay events leading up to the championships—it was a true celebration of sport!”

“It is important to emphasize that it was the region’s residents—participants of the 50 Relays initiative, fans, and visitors to the fan zone—who created the energy that gave these championships their meaning,” added Beata Sawińska. “The enthusiasm, commitment, and shared passion gave this event a truly unique and communal character.”

“I’ve attended many sporting events around the world and seen top-level organization, but honestly—I didn’t expect that we would create something this outstanding, refined in every detail,” said WIC Director Krzysztof Wolsztyński. “We have proven that we are a true capital of athletics. Great credit also goes to the volunteers and my team—their dedication was exceptional. I’m proud not only of the event itself, but above all of the people who made it happen and the atmosphere we built together.”

A strong emphasis was also placed on sustainability. “We implemented a number of initiatives promoting sustainable development,” said Magdalena Burdziej, Director of the Department of International Cooperation. “Water dispensers were available at the arena, and a reusable cup system was introduced. We ensured responsible waste management—for example, athletes’ plastic bottles were donated to NGOs. Funds collected from deposits will support environmental education initiatives.”

Participants and organizers alike highlighted the event’s emotional impact. “It was an incredible experience! I could feel the emotions live and see top athletes up close. I feel even more motivated to train and maybe one day compete at such championships myself,” said Malwina Kania, an athlete from MKL Toruń and a volunteer.

Media interest exceeded expectations. “We were surprised by the scale of international media coverage—not just from Europe, but also from outside the continent,” noted Mateusz Bosiacki, responsible for marketing and media. “There were more applicants than available spots, but we managed the challenge. Volunteers were absolutely indispensable.”

A Region United by Sport

In the 50 days leading up to the championships, the “50 Relays of Kujawy and Pomorze” initiative engaged all counties in the region. The symbolic relay baton passed through 50 municipalities, covering a total of 6,100 kilometres and involving over 5,000 participants—athletes, amateurs, families, and seniors.

The fan zone at Toruń’s New Town Market Square also attracted huge interest. Covering over 9,000 m², it welcomed more than 30,000 visitors. Events were broadcast live on a panoramic LED screen, while visitors could try athletics disciplines, VR experiences, gaming stations, and meet professional athletes.

“This was a massive logistical undertaking—36 hours of operation, 24-hour broadcasts, and tens of thousands of visitors. It was a great promotion of both the city and athletics,” emphasized organizers from One Sport.

The championships also boosted local tourism. “We held thousands of conversations in the fan zone, promoting the region’s attractions. Many visitors followed our recommendations and explored the region,” said Rafał Frąckiewicz, Director of the Kujawsko-Pomorskie Tourist Organization.

Championships in Numbers

• 632 athletes from 111 countries (323 men, 309 women)
• 2 world records
• 6 championship records
• 12 world-leading results
• 46 national records
• 174 personal bests

Poland won four medals:

• Gold – Jakub Szymański (60m hurdles)
• Silver – Natalia Bukowiecka (400m)
• Bronze – Mixed relay team (Duszyński, Gryc, Karolewski, Święty-Ersetic)
• Bronze – Pia Skrzyszowska (60m hurdles)

Poland placed 9th in the medal table and 2nd in the points classification.

The event drew over 20,000 spectators to the Kujawsko-Pomorskie Arena Toruń. More than 70 broadcasters aired the championships in over 130 countries. A total of 280 journalists and photographers were accredited, and 1,100 interviews were conducted in the mixed zone.

Volunteers and Legacy

Nearly 500 volunteers, aged 17 to 70, played a crucial role. “Behind every smiling fan and smoothly run competition are people who give their time with passion and commitment,” emphasized Marshal Całbecki.

Athletics also reached beyond the arena. Over 55,000 visitors attended the Museum of World Athletics exhibition at Toruń Plaza, showcasing historic memorabilia of the sport.

During the championships, Marshal Piotr Całbecki received an award from World Athletics President Sebastian Coe for outstanding contributions to the development of athletics worldwide.

“This was an intense, demanding, but incredibly rewarding undertaking,” summarized Karol Lejman of One Sport. “The slogan ‘Together we create the World Championships’ truly reflected the spirit of this event—it was a celebration for the entire community.”

Beata Krzemińska
Spokesperson for the Marshal’s Office

March 27, 2026