World Athletics has introduced a new 'Coach of the Year' award to acknowledge the vital role coaches play in athlete development and management. The award was announced on September 29, 2026, to mark 'World Coaches' Day'. This new recognition scheme features a multi-stage selection and voting process, culminating in the award presentation at the World Athletics annual honours ceremony in Monaco on November 29.
The 'Coach of the Year' award replaces the former Coaching Achievement Award, which has previously been presented to several prominent coaches. The new award will be overseen by World Athletics' Coaches' Commission, established at the end of 2025. The Commission will utilize a revamped voting system, initially shortlisting six to eight candidates before area coaches' associations or designated bodies rank them to determine three finalists and an overall winner.
The Coaches' Commission, led by Frank Dick, will ensure representation across all six areas. The voting process aims to shine a spotlight on coaches who play a fundamental role in athlete development and management. The Commission's involvement underscores World Athletics' commitment to recognizing the value of coaches as drivers of innovation and change.
The selection process will conclude with the announcement of three finalists on November 16. The eventual winner will be revealed live on stage during the World Athletics Awards. This new award celebrates the coaching community's selection of its ambassador of excellence and World Athletics' dedication to acknowledging the immense value of coaches.
Frank Dick, chair of the Coaches' Commission, emphasized the significance of the new award. He stated that it not only recognizes coaching excellence but also highlights World Athletics' commitment to valuing coaches as architects of possibility and drivers of innovation and change.
The 2026 World Athletics Awards will take place in Monaco on November 29, featuring several other honours, including 'World Athlete of the Year', the 'Rising Star and President's Award', and the inaugural 'Moment of the Year'. The introduction of the 'Coach of the Year' award adds to the prestige of the annual event.
The inaugural 'Coach of the Year' award is a significant development in World Athletics' recognition of coaching excellence. The award's introduction, along with the establishment of the Coaches' Commission, demonstrates World Athletics' commitment to valuing the contributions of coaches to the sport.
Key points
- World Athletics introduces new 'Coach of the Year' award to recognize coaching excellence
- The award replaces the former Coaching Achievement Award
- The 2026 World Athletics Awards will take place in Monaco on November 29
