On 10 September, the one-year countdown event for the World Athletics Championships Beijing 27 (WCH Beijing 27) took place in the Golden Hall of the National Stadium, known as the Bird's Nest. The event officially unveiled the championship's emblem, mascot, and theme slogan, marking a significant milestone in preparations for the global sporting event.
The emblem, named "Jing Yue", centers on the Temple of Heaven and the Chinese character "京" (Jing), which means capital. It draws on the expressive charm of Chinese calligraphy, engraving Beijing's local identity while radiating the vibrant energy of athletics. This design choice underscores Beijing's unique position as a city that blends ancient tradition with modern dynamism.
The mascot, "Jing Yan", is inspired by "Yan'er", the mascot of the 2015 World Championships held in Beijing. Modeled after the Beijing swift, it symbolizes "the return of the swift after 12 years". The design incorporates traditional Chinese kite patterns and the expressive eye makeup of Peking Opera, while a lightning-bolt dynamic adds a sense of speed. This mascot not only nods to the 2015 edition but also brings Beijing's rich cultural heritage vividly to life, connecting past and present in a celebration of sport and culture.
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 resonates with the core values of athletics, emphasizing determination and perseverance.
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 to the highest possible standard and deliver an unforgettable sporting spectacular for audiences across the globe. Coe's endorsement highlights the international confidence in Beijing's ability to host major events.
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 event is expected to draw global attention and further cement Beijing's status as a premier host of international sporting competitions.
The unveiling of these symbols marks a crucial step in building excitement and engagement ahead of the championships. For more information, visit the official website at World Athletics and follow the hashtags #WCHBeijing27 and #EveryStepCounts on social media to stay updated.
