World Athletics is the international governing body for track and field, cross country, road running, and other athletics. It was formerly known as the International Amateur Athletic Federation (IAAF).

What does World Athletics do?

• Sets standards for administering competitions
• Sets standards for using equipment
• Documents world records
• Organizes and sanctions athletics competitions
• Approves rules and regulations
• Selects host cities for World Athletics events
• Decides the competition calendar
• Develops the World Plan for athletics

History

• The IAAF was founded in 1912 in Stockholm, Sweden
• The IAAF’s name changed to the International Association of Athletics Federations in 2001
• The IAAF’s name changed to World Athletics in 2019

World Athletics competitions

• World Athletics Championships
• World Athletics Indoor Championships
• World Athletics U20 Championships
• World Athletics Relays
• World Athletics Road Running Championships
• World Athletics Race Walking Team Championships
• World Athletics Cross Country Championships