Russian champion Sergey Shubenkov said he was delighted to join as an ambassador for Qatar’s 2019 bid, saying that given Qatar’s standing in the world of sport and its wide interest in athletics among young and old, it can win the race against Eugene and Barcelona. The Russian added that Qatar’s bid rests on the country’s good reputation for hosting and organising championships, especially since it contains a great deal that can convince the world to award it the hosting rights. The Russian champion said the competition between the countries would not be easy, but Qatar’s great capabilities in the world of sport would give it the best chance of prevailing in organising the championships, saying: “I am truly delighted to be here on Doha’s soil to voice my support for the bid to host the 2019 edition of the World Athletics Championships in this wonderful city. I really enjoyed working today alongside these promising athletes. The Middle East has never before hosted any world championship. Hosting this world championship for the first time in the Middle East will undoubtedly help highlight an unprecedented opportunity to introduce a promising generation of athletes and fans to the world’s sporting stars. Perhaps what most distinguishes this region is that 60 percent of its population is under 30, which offers an unmatched opportunity to showcase leading sporting talent and encourage more of the new generation to take part in and support sporting competitions. For my part, I voice my support for hosting the 2019 edition of the championships in Doha, believing in the major role this championship will play in inspiring the new generation and encouraging it to take part in sport.”
