World Indoor Championships Kujawy Pomorze 26: Experience the fan zone atmosphere!

At the fan zone in the Rynek Nowomiejski, spectators could enjoy the same sporting emotions as those in the stands of the Kujawsko-Pomorska Arena in Toruń. Over three days, fans of athletics had the opportunity to meet stars of Polish and international athletics, take photos, and congratulate them on their performances. On March 22, Jakub Szymański, gold medalist in the 60-meter hurdles on March 21, greeted fans, with congratulations from Piotr Całbecki.

– We have a world champion! Congratulations to Kuba! – said Piotr Całbecki in the packed fan tent. – With this gold medal, you gave us a huge gift. Thank you for fighting to the very end. You fulfilled the dreams of myself and hundreds of people who worked hard to organize the World Indoor Championships. You gave us unforgettable moments that will stay with us forever.

The Marshal also thanked Jakub Szymański’s coach, Mikołaj Justyński.

From March 20–22, fans enjoyed live broadcasts of the championships, local culinary specialties, sports competitions, and concerts. Aneta Jędrzejewska emphasized during the opening on March 20:

– This fan zone is for you! There will be plenty of sporting excitement, cultural attractions, and local delicacies. I am sure everyone will find something for themselves. Come with your friends and feel the atmosphere of the queen of sports.

The opening featured legendary athletes, including four-time Olympic race walker Robert Korzeniowski, 800-meter world champion Adam Kszczot, and Toruń’s vice president Adam Szponka. The event coincided with the conclusion of the “50 relays of Kujawy and Pomorze” campaign, with the symbolic baton handed over to Aneta Jędrzejewska by Adam Kszczot.

Live broadcasts and athlete meet-and-greets
Thousands watched live transmissions from the championships on large screens in the heated tent and on stage from 10:00 to 22:00 each day. Every morning began with a running session with Adam Kszczot. Fans also met athletes such as Marek Plawgo, Marcin Lewandowski, Piotr Małachowski, Iga Baumgart-Witan, Sofia Ennaui, Małgorzata Hołub-Kowalik, Nelli Cooman (NED), Daniel Komen (KEN), Ryan Whiting (USA), Noureddine Morceli (ALG), and speed skating Olympic silver medalist Władimir Siemirunnij. After competitions, long jump athlete Anna Matuszewicz greeted spectators.

Athletics for everyone
Fans could try out equipment used by elite athletes, including Mondo tracks with starting blocks and timing systems, long jump mats, and vertical jump measuring devices. Children enjoyed a dedicated zone with animators, while VR stations, PlayStation setups, and AI photo booths brought modern, interactive experiences. Visitors could also collect “Champion Passports” for HMŚ Kujawy Pomorze 26 souvenirs.

Theatre, music, and local cuisine
On March 21, the rap artist Fukaj performed, supported throughout the three days by DJs Funktion and Pac1. Spectacular performances by Teatr Ocelot and a finale concert by Nelcor entertained visitors. Local specialties like bigos, bread with lard, fresh milk, and pączki were offered by regional farmers and rural women’s associations. The sustainable development zone highlighted local parks and environmental institutions.

Exhibitions
Along ul. Królowej Jadwigi, the “50 Days of Kujawy and Pomorze Relay” photo exhibition ran, and visitors could see the “History of Polish Athletics” exhibition at the former Evangelical Church (Camerimage Cinema) in Rynek Nowomiejski.

Parade and official opening
The colorful parade on March 20 set off from the fan zone to the Old Town Market, where the championships were officially opened with performances by Oskar Cyms, Ray Wilson, and Gromee.

Museum of World Athletics (MOWA) exhibition
Through March 22, visitors could view the free MOWA exhibition with medals, uniforms, and equipment of the greatest athletics stars.

Beata Krzemińska
Spokesperson for the Marshal’s Office

March 20, 2026
Last updated: March 23, 2026