Renowned sports journalist Elias Makori has been appointed as a Press Delegate and Media Liaison Officer by World Athletics (WA).
In this role, he will oversee media operations for select one-day events organized by the global track and field governing body.
Makori, formerly the Lead Editor for Sports and Integration at Nation Media Group, confirmed his appointment, expressing pride in the opportunity.
He disclosed that his responsibilities include serving as a Press Delegate for the World Athletics Wanda Diamond League and as a Media Liaison Officer for the World Athletics Continental Tour series.
In this capacity, Makori will contribute to the preparation of the 2025 Wanda Diamond League Media Guidelines and travel to various meetings under the Wanda Diamond League and Continental Tour as assigned by World Athletics.
His role involves monitoring and evaluating media operations and services at these events to ensure smooth communication and coverage.
“This is a great honour, not only to me but to Kenyan and African sports journalism as a whole. This is certainly one of the highlights of my journalism career,” Makori remarked.
“I thank World Athletics sincerely for recognizing the work we do to promote athletics in Kenya, Africa, and globally. I hope this achievement inspires other sports journalists in Kenya and Africa.”
Makori received his appointment letter from World Athletics officials Zacharias Vailakis, Head of Media Operations and Project Integration, and Martina Kucherova, Senior Manager for Media Operations.
Athletics Kenya and Global Endorsements
Athletics Kenya President and World Athletics Vice President Jackson Tuwei congratulated Makori, describing him as highly qualified for the role.
“Congratulations. Very happy for you as the representative of such a large audience. You are equal to the task,” Tuwei said.
Makori’s appointment follows a distinguished career, including being named World Journalist of the Year in 2012 during World Athletics’ centennial celebrations in Barcelona.
Extensive Experience in Media Operations
In addition to his new role, Makori serves on the Steering Committee for the 2025 Africa Nations Championship (CHAN) and 2027 African Nations Cup (AFCON), managing media operations for both tournaments.
Previously, he held roles such as National Press Officer and Head of Media for the WRC Safari Rally (2021–2024) and Press Officer for the Kip Keino Classic World Athletics Continental Tour meeting since 2021.
His contributions to the WRC Safari Rally earned high praise from the World Rally Championship (WRC) and the International Automobile Federation (FIA).
“Elias’ standing with the wider sporting community in Kenya has been incredibly beneficial to us as the (WRC) Promoter as we aim to extend our impact outside the rallying world,” noted Jared Grellet, WRC’s Head of Communications.
Makori’s excellence in media operations has also been acknowledged by FIA Media Delegate Vera Dussausaye, who praised his detailed planning and execution at previous events.
Academic and Professional Achievements
Makori, 54, holds a Master’s degree in Sports Management from the Cruyff Institute in Barcelona. He spent 32 years at Nation Media Group before his departure in June 2024, alongside other senior editors.
His accolades include being named Employee of the Year at Nation Media Group twice (2008 and 2012) and winning Kenya Sports Journalist of the Year three times (2000, 2014, and 2022).
Additionally, he was recognized as Africa Media Personality of the Year by The Voice magazine in 2019 and 2024 and was named Africa Journalist of the Year in 2023 by the International Boxing Association (IBA).
Makori’s latest appointment further cements his legacy as one of Africa’s leading sports journalists and a global authority in media operations for athletics.
