About the Event
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The Virtus World Athletics Championships 2025 were held from 8 to 15 October 2025 at the Queensland Sport and Athletics Centre (QSAC), Brisbane.
This major international event welcomed over 300 elite athletes with intellectual impairments from 30 countries, competing across a full athletics program. The Championships included events for II-1, II-2 and II-3 categories, as well as a youth competition and Oceania regional events to support athlete development across the region.
Returning to Australia for the first time in 20 years, the Championships showcased Brisbane’s capacity to host inclusive, world-class sporting events and contributed to the city’s growing reputation ahead of the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
Key Event Moments
A Welcome to Country paying tribute to the Turrbal and Yugara people opened the Championships, honouring First Nations culture and connection to Country. This was followed by a cultural performance including spectacular fire and dance, showcasing the artistry and spirit of the host nation.
Over 4 days of competition athletes rewrote the record books with 27 Virtus World records broken at the event.
The Australian team delivered exceptional performances:
- Siarne Davis broke three Virtus World Records in Discus (37.6m), Javelin (19.11m) and Shot Put (8.59m).
- Emma Papantoniou set a new Virtus World Record in the Women’s II-3 800m (2:55.41).
Australia finished the event in second place, but achieved the most medals overall. The medal haul of 46 included:
- 10 Gold
- 22 Silver
- 14 Bronze
Event Impact
Hosting the Championships delivered significant benefits for Brisbane and the broader community:
Tourism
- Athletes, officials and supporters contributed to local hospitality and tourism sectors.
Community engagement
- Schools and clubs participated in inclusive sport activities, promoting awareness and participation. This included several school groups attending the Championships at QSAC to cheer on the athletes.
Innovation and sustainability
- The event was live-streamed globally, enhancing accessibility and reach.
- Inclusive design principles were applied across the venue, including sensory-friendly zones and accessible transport options.
Legacy
The Championships left a lasting legacy for inclusive sport in Australia by:
- Hosting an International Sport Summit, held alongside the Championships, which explored equity, leadership and inclusion in sport.
- Strengthening pathways for athletes with intellectual impairments through youth development and international exposure.
- Reinforcing Australia’s position as a global leader in inclusive sport and event hosting.