Doha Set to Host 2026 Diamond League Season Opener as World Athletics Raises Prize Money
Written by Alonge Akinlolu on 28 — 10
The 2026 Diamond League season will begin in Doha, Qatar, on May 8, with World Athletics confirming a major increase in prize money for athletes ahead of the new campaign.
According to the global athletics body, the upcoming season, the 17th edition of the prestigious track and field series will feature meetings across Asia, Africa, Europe, and North America, offering athletes a richer and more competitive experience.
After the Doha opener, the Diamond League will continue in Shanghai (May 16), Xiamen (May 23), and Rabat, Morocco (May 31) the only African leg of the tour. The circuit will then move through major cities including Rome, Stockholm, Oslo, Paris, Eugene (USA), Monaco, London, Lausanne, Silesia, Zurich, and will conclude with the grand final in Brussels from September 4 to 5.
In a significant development, World Athletics has doubled the prize money for winners. Victors in regular Diamond League events will now earn $20,000, up from the previous $10,000, while winners of the finals will take home $50,000.
The increase in rewards is expected to further elevate the competition, attract more global stars, and add excitement to one of athletics’ most prestigious annual series.
With Rabat representing Africa once again, the continent will be looking forward to seeing its top athletes shine on home soil as the 2026 Diamond League season gets underway in Doha.
