On 10 September, the one-year countdown event for the World Athletics Championships Beijing 27 (WCH Beijing 27) was held in the Golden Hall of the National Stadium, commonly known as the Bird's Nest. Amidst the anticipation of the audience, the emblem, mascot, and theme slogan of the WCH Beijing 27 were officially unveiled, conveying the message of Beijing through unique designs. The event marks a significant milestone in the lead-up to the championships, generating excitement and momentum as the global athletics community prepares to gather in Beijing.
The emblem, "Jing Yue", centred on the Temple of Heaven and the Chinese character "京" (Jing), draws on the expressive charm of Chinese calligraphy, engraves Beijing's local identity, and radiates the vibrant energy of athletics. This design not only showcases Beijing's rich cultural heritage but also symbolizes the dynamic spirit of the competition. By incorporating iconic elements of the city, the emblem serves as a visual ambassador for the event, promoting Beijing's unique character to a global audience.
The mascot, "Jing Yan", draws inspiration from "Yan'er", the mascot of the 2015 edition of the Championships. Modelled after the Beijing swift, it symbolises "the return of the swift after 12 years". The design subtly incorporates traditional Chinese kite patterns and the expressive eye makeup of Peking Opera, while a lightning-bolt dynamic adds a sense of speed. This seamlessly blends natural vitality, culture, art, and athletic competition. It not only nods to the 2015 edition of the Championships, but also brings Beijing's rich cultural heritage vividly to life. The mascot's connection to the previous event creates a sense of continuity and nostalgia, while its fresh design appeals to new generations of fans.
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 athletes and spectators alike, emphasizing the importance of perseverance and dedication in the pursuit of greatness. It also reflects the core values of the World Athletics Championships, where every moment and every stride can make a difference.
In his 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 of the Championships to the highest possible standard and deliver an unforgettable sporting spectacular for audiences across the globe. Coe's endorsement underscores the international confidence in Beijing's ability to host major sporting events and highlights the city's proven track record.
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 unveiling of the emblem, mascot, and slogan not only builds anticipation but also reinforces Beijing's commitment to delivering a world-class event that celebrates sport, culture, and unity. As the countdown continues, these symbols will play a crucial role in engaging fans and promoting the championships worldwide.
Hashtag: #WCHBeijing27 #EveryStepCounts
