AFI Overhauls Domestic Competitions to Boost International Performance

The Athletics Federation of India (AFI) announced plans to revamp the domestic competition and qualification system starting in the 2025 season. The initiative aims to address performance declines at major international events, requiring athletes to compete in more domestic events to qualify. Regional competitions and a 'no needle policy' will also be emphasized.

The Athletics Federation of India (AFI) has unveiled a comprehensive plan to overhaul the domestic competition and qualification system starting from the 2025 season, according to its president, Adille Sumariwalla.

During a media interaction at the South Asian Junior Athletics Championship, he stated that the initiative aims to help athletes achieve peak performance at major international events. This move comes in response to concerns over the sudden decline in performance by Indian athletes at the 2024 Paris Olympic Games.

Sumariwalla also emphasized a shift towards regional competitions and announced the decentralization of national camps. Athletes will train at regional centers, and the 'no needle policy' will continue in collaboration with the National Anti Doping Agency (NADA).