1 week Ago
LONDON, April 27 — London is preparing a bid to host the World Athletics Championships in 2029, organisers announced yesterday.A joint venture involving UK Athletics, the Great Run Company and London Marathon Events has completed a feasibility study ahead of submitting a formal expression of interest to World Athletics in September.The bid is contingent on securing £45 million (RM258 million) in government support for delivery.
If successful, it would be the first time London has hosted the event since 2017, which boasted a sold-out stadium for every session.UK Athletics president Denise Lewis, who was part of the team that secured that edition, said: “London 2017 showed the world what this city and this country can do.“It was an incredible example of how we can unite behind a vision — full stadiums, global energy, and a lasting impact.
I was proud to help bring that event to life, and I know we can do it again in 2029.”Athletic Ventures was launched in April 2024 with the aim of maximising the expertise of the three organisations involved to create a more sustainable future for the sport in the UK.According to its feasibility study, the 2029 championships would generate an economic and social impact of more than £400 million.
Lewis is optimistic the campaign will be able to secure government support.“Yes, these are challenging times, but it’s precisely in moments like these that sport can lift us — economically, socially, emotionally,” she said.“With the right backing, we can create a World Athletics Championships in 2029 that leaves a legacy to be proud of.
” — AFP.
