European Athletics President Svein Arne Hansen has expressed his surprise at the decision by the IAAF to award the 2021 World Championships to Eugene.
“I would like to congratulate USA Track & Field and Vin Lananna, who has led Eugene’s bid, but I must say I am very surprised by the complete lack of process in the decision the IAAF has taken,” said President Hansen.
“The IAAF knew that Gothenburg was a serious candidate for the 2021 World Championships. Swedish Athletics and the city had put in a lot of effort over the years to prepare the bidding application but they have not even been given the chance to bid for the event.
“I have already spoken to Swedish Athletics Federation President Björn Eriksson and he is deeply disappointed about what has happened.
“I completely understand the disappointment of Björn and Göteborg & Co. CEO Camilla Nyman. I know that 2021 was the most important year for the city because it is when they will celebrate their 400th anniversary.
“This type of decision would just not happen within European Athletics as we have a comprehensive bidding process that all candidates must follow.”
London will host the 2017 World Championships before Doha hosts the event in 2019.
This means it is the first time a World Championships will be held outside of Europe for two consecutive editions.
“This is, of course, not good for the development of our sport on the continent. European Athletics expects the World Championships to come back to Europe in 2023.”