Amid the hustle and bustle of the World Championships in Tokyo, the voice of Ximena Restrepo resonated with strength and conviction. The Colombian-Chilean former athlete, a reference on the track and in sports leadership, surprised many by announcing her candidacy for the presidency of World Athletics. More than a personal step, her decision reflects a commitment to the future of sport and to new generations who dream of running, jumping, and throwing in environments where equality and inspiration are present.

The announcement did not go unnoticed. Restrepo, mother of the Chilean athlete Martina Weil, spoke from experience and emotion, acknowledging the progress made under the current administration while suggesting that the path toward a more inclusive, modern, and approachable institution still has much to cover. Her words opened a necessary debate: what kind of leadership does athletics need in the coming decade?

A candidate with history and vision

Restrepo represents not only a successful athlete who shone on the track, but also a woman who has witnessed the transformations of global athletics up close. In her speech, she highlighted concrete achievements of World Athletics over the past six years: gender parity on the Council, reached ahead of schedule; the growth of audiences on social media; and the success of programs aimed at children around the world. Each of these milestones, she noted, is proof that sport is alive, constantly evolving, and capable of reaching more people.

But her vision goes beyond numbers and institutional reports. Restrepo spoke from passion, from the pride of seeing packed stadiums at the World Championships and sponsors trusting athletics as a vehicle of values. At the same time, she acknowledged the key role of Sebastian Coe’s leadership but hinted at the need for a new drive, a fresh wind to consolidate what has already been achieved and open new doors for the development of athletes and communities.

The challenge of leading world athletics

Running for the presidency of World Athletics is not just accepting a position; it is taking on the responsibility of guiding a sport with millions of practitioners and spectators around the world. Restrepo knows this, and her message carries a background of commitment: to continue strengthening the foundations, expanding youth programs, and ensuring that inclusion and equity remain fundamental pillars.

Her candidacy embodies a story of resilience and construction. From her roots in Colombia to her life in Chile, from her days as an athlete to her role as mother of an elite athlete, Restrepo carries a human testimony that connects with the aspirations of many. The question now is whether athletics is ready to take this leap and open the way for female leadership that not only administers but inspires an entire generation.