Federations Commit to 2022 European Championships

(ATR) European federations involved in the inaugural event in Glasgow and Berlin today confirmed their intentions to take part in the 2022 edition.

Leaders of the continental governing bodies for athletics, swimming, cycling, gymnastics, rowing, triathlon and golf "committed in principle" to participate in the 2022 multisports events after initial discussions on the host venue selection process for future editions.

In 2018, the existing European Championships of athletics, aquatics, cycling, gymnastics, rowing and triathlon will be brought together for the first time in Glasgow and Berlin. A new Golf Team Championships will also be introduced onto the European stage.

"There is already great interest from cities, regions and countries in the hosting of the 2022 European Championships, which shows the value of our innovative concept – for the sports and the bidding cities," said Svein Arne Hansen, co-chair of the European Championships board.

"It is obvious why all the participating sports want to carry on in 2022 as the European Championships is a sustainable event that brings together our existing championships without adding to a crowded calendar, and this is very attractive and affordable to a wide range of host cities," said the European Athletics president.

Co-chair Paolo Barelli, head of European Aquatics, said the 2018 event would deliver huge benefits to the seven participating sports "through a higher profile and reach through our media agreements with the European Broadcasting Union.

"This will ensure our long-term financial security as we are confident the championships will go from strength-to-strength through 2022 and beyond."

The seven participating sports federations discussed progress on the project at a board meeting in the German capital on Monday.

Members received updates from Berlin and Glasgow organizers and other task forces related to the timetable, brand, ceremonies, celebrations and shared experiences. The next board meeting is in Rome in October.

The 2018 championships scheduled for August will involve around 1,500 athletes, competing in Berlin as part of the European Athletics Championships. About 3,025 athletes will compete in Glasgow in the other six events.

Reported by Mark Bisson

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