Athletes demand UK government funding for London 2029 Championships bid
- Over 100 British athletes, including Olympians, have signed a letter urging government backing for a World Championships bid.
- A financial commitment of £45 million is being sought to host the event, which could generate over £400 million in economic and social benefits.
- The athletes emphasize the importance of timely government support to capitalize on the opportunity to inspire the next generation.
In the United Kingdom, Olympic gold medallists Keely Hodgkinson and Sir Mo Farah have taken the lead in a campaign that has rallied over 100 athletes to seek financial support from the UK government for a bid to host the 2029 World Athletics Championships in London. In a letter addressed to Prime Minister Keir Starmer, the athletes express the need for a commitment of £45 million, highlighting the significant economic and social impact that the event could generate, as suggested by a feasibility study conducted by Athletic Ventures. This estimated impact is said to exceed £400 million, indicating that the benefits of hosting the championships would extend well beyond the immediate sports event. The letter emphasizes the importance of the bid not only for the athletes' careers but also as a pivotal moment for the UK, potentially inspiring future generations of athletes and fostering national pride. The champions argue that the UK's proven track record in hosting major global events positions it well to manage and execute a successful championships, similar to the sold-out sessions experienced during the last championships held in London in 2017. The athletes underline that the request for government backing comes at a crucial time, as the spending review by Chancellor Rachel Reeves is forthcoming, and that prompt support would signal a commitment to bringing the championships home. Furthermore, the letter states that the implications of the championships reach far beyond sports alone; it encompasses opportunities for inclusion, wellbeing, and cultural representation. The athletes note that hosting such events stimulates tourism and showcases the UK's capabilities on the world stage. In their message, they call upon the government to act quickly, indicating that The time to show support for the bid is limited, thus urging timely action from the Prime Minister. With national pride and an economic boost at stake, the athletes invoke their unique positions as representatives of Great Britain and Northern Ireland to illustrate the event’s potential impact. By affirming government support for the bid, they believe, the UK can solidify its role as a leader in organizing prestigious sports events that leave a lasting legacy for the next generation.