Note: Single-source report; awaiting corroboration.
The inaugural World Athletics Ultimate Championship was held in Budapest, concluding after three days of competition that drew 61,671 spectators to three sold-out sessions at the Gyula Zsivotzky National Athletics Centre.
The event hosted 352 athletes from 65 member federations, including Olympic champions, world champions, world record holders, and Wanda Diamond League winners. Athletes competed in head-to-head contests through a compact, high-stakes format, producing 28 Ultimate champions from 18 countries.
Standout performances included Melissa Jefferson-Wooden’s victories in the women's sprint double with world-leading times, Kenny Bednarek’s men's 100m and 200m double, Mondo Duplantis’ win in men’s pole vault at 6.20m, and Collen Kebinatshipi's 43.39 in the men's 400m.
World Athletics President Sebastian Coe stated that the championship successfully placed athletes at the center while showcasing their abilities and personalities. He noted the positive feedback from stakeholders and thanked Budapest and the Hungarian government for supporting the event.
The championship also served as a platform to trial new competition formats, event presentation innovations, technology, and ways for athletes to interact with fans. Early responses from spectators, athletes, and broadcasters were described as highly encouraging.