By clicking "Start Submission", you agree to be contacted by the host regarding this opportunity.
By clicking "Start Submission", you agree to be contacted by the host regarding this opportunity.
ABOUT
Capturing the Extraordinary in Athletics
Every moment in athletics tells a story. From breathtaking performances and unforgettable victories to raw emotions and moments of determination, photography captures the extraordinary spirit of our sport.
The World Athletics Photograph of the Year 2026 celebrates the creativity, talent and unique perspectives of professional photographers who bring these moments to life.
Professional photographers officially accredited to photograph an eligible athletics competition in 2026 are invited to submit one photograph that captures the essence of athletics at its finest.
A panel of experts will select three finalists, to be revealed on 9 November 2026. Athletics fans around the world will then have their say through a public vote on World Athletics' Instagram account from 9 to 15 November.
The winning photograph will be announced on 28 November 2026, ahead of the World Athletics Awards in Monaco on 29 November, where the photographer will receive international recognition.
One photograph. One extraordinary moment. Your chance to showcase athletics to the world.
WHAT THE WINNER RECEIVES
The winner will be honoured with the prestigious title of World Athletics Photograph of the Year 2026, celebrating outstanding photographic excellence and the ability to capture the extraordinary spirit of athletics.
The winning photograph will receive international recognition and be showcased as part of the World Athletics Awards in Monaco on 29 November 2026, placing the photographer's work in the spotlight of the global athletics community.
The award is honorary, with no monetary or additional prizes associated with the title.
ABOUT WORLD ATHLETICS
World Athletics is the international governing body for the sport of athletics, representing more than 200 Member Federations across six continental areas.
Our mission is to grow athletics worldwide, inspire new generations and celebrate the extraordinary achievements of athletes at every level.
Through world-class competitions, global initiatives and partnerships, World Athletics strives to make athletics more accessible, engaging and inspiring, connecting athletes, fans and communities around the world.
HOW TO ENTER
Ready to showcase your best athletics photograph of 2026?
Professional photographers officially accredited to photograph an eligible athletics competition in 2026 are invited to submit their most compelling image through Picter, the official submission platform for the World Athletics Photograph of the Year 2026.
To enter the competition:
- Access the platform: Visit the official World Athletics Photograph of the Year 2026 open call on Picter.
- Select your photograph: Choose one photograph taken at an eligible athletics competition during the 2026 calendar year.
- Prepare your submission: Upload your photograph (maximum 5 MB) and provide a caption, the date it was taken, technical information and a short biography (maximum 50 words).
- Complete your entry: Fill in the required information, accept the competition's Terms and Conditions and submit your photograph directly through Picter.
Submission deadline: 30 October 2026 at 23:59 (Monaco time).
Only one entry per photographer is permitted. World Athletics may request the original image file and adjacent frames for verification purposes.
One photograph. One extraordinary moment. Your chance to showcase athletics to the world.
JUDGING CRITERIA
The World Athletics Photograph of the Year 2026 celebrates photographic excellence and the ability to capture the extraordinary moments, emotions and stories that define athletics.
All eligible submissions will be evaluated by a panel of five experts, taking into consideration the following criteria:
- Visual Impact: The photograph's ability to capture attention and leave a lasting impression.
- Creativity and Originality: A distinctive perspective that presents athletics in a compelling and innovative way.
- Technical Excellence: The quality of the composition, lighting, timing and overall photographic execution.
- Storytelling and Emotion: The ability to convey a powerful moment, emotion or story that reflects the spirit of athletics.
- Relevance to Athletics: The photograph's connection to the sport, celebrating its athletes, performances, atmosphere or defining moments.