Athletes Urge Support for London Bid
Open Letter to the Prime Minister
More than 100 athletes from the UK, including Olympic champions Sir Mo Farah and Keely Hodgkinson, have reached out to Prime Minister Keir Starmer to express their strong support for London's bid to host the 2029 World Athletics Championships. The athletes have insisted that government assistance is vital for the success of the bid.
Economic Impact and Funding
The championships are proposed to take place at the London Stadium, requiring a government investment estimated at $57 million. According to a feasibility study, this funding could generate economic benefits exceeding $400 million for the nation, positioning the event as a significant economic opportunity.
Inspiration for Future Generations
In their open letter, the athletes emphasized the importance of hosting the World Athletics Championships, noting that it would highlight elite athleticism and inspire young individuals to participate in sports. Many athletes reflected on their own early experiences in athletics, noting how major events shaped their careers.
Upcoming Bid Process
The official bidding process for the 2029 Championships is set to begin this summer. Organizers are appealing for a clear commitment from the government soon, which is crucial for securing the event for the UK and building upon the success of the Championships held in 2017. They stress the importance of acting quickly to ensure that this opportunity is not missed.
