Lausanne Diamond League: Athletissima guide — what to watch and how to go

Think track meets and you imagine a crowd, a roar, and split-second history. Lausanne's Diamond League stop, Athletissima, often delivers that. Held at the Stade de la Pontaise, it pulls the world's best sprinters, jumpers and throwers to Switzerland for one fast night. This short guide tells you what events matter, which athletes to track, and how to get the most from the day.

Athletissima sits on the Diamond League calendar as one of the top one-day meetings. Expect 100m and 200m sprints, 400m hurdles, middle-distance races like the 1500m, plus long jump, pole vault and shot put. The meeting often produces season-best results and sometimes world records thanks to a quick track and strong fields. Schedule shifts each year, so check the official start list and event times before you plan.

Who to watch

Lausanne draws top names in every discipline. Sprinters chase raw speed in the 100m and 200m, while vaulters and jumpers hunt for height and distance. Middle-distance races often produce tactical battles that end in fast final laps. Keep an eye on young athletes using Lausanne to break through and on veterans measuring form ahead of championships.

How to go & watch

Buy tickets early from the official meeting site or trusted resellers to avoid sold-out days and inflated resale prices. Lausanne's public transport is easy: trams and buses connect the city to the stadium, and event shuttles run on big meet days. Arrive early for warm-up views and better seating choices. Dress in layers — the weather can change quickly, and evenings get chilly even after a sunny afternoon. Check bag rules; small snacks are handy but large coolers may be banned.

If you can’t make it, the meeting is usually live on broadcasters and streaming platforms. The Diamond League app shows start lists, results and heat splits in real time. Follow the meeting account and athlete feeds for instant photos, reaction clips and last-minute schedule notes.

Tips for media and photographers: apply early for press or photo accreditation; spots fill fast. Bring a long lens for field events and a compact setup for quick athlete interviews.

Athletissima is a place where seasons turn and careers get a spotlight. Fast tracks, strong fields and a lively crowd make it one of the most exciting stops on the Diamond League tour. Plan ahead, pick your events, and expect tight finishes that come down to hundredths of a second. Whether you’re at the stadium or watching at home, Athletissima delivers pure athletics drama.

Check the official Athletissima site for dates, tickets and the full event timetable. Bring a phone or camera with charged battery, but respect athlete zones and media instructions. If you travel, book hotels near the city center and buy return transport early. For quick updates during the meet, follow local transport accounts and the meeting's social channels. Enjoy the speed, the jumps and the close finishes. Expect unforgettable nights every year.