The 173rd European Athletics Council meeting in Rome awarded the 2027 European Athletics Indoor Championships to the Spanish city of Valencia on Friday (19).
It will be the second time that the championships will be staged in Valencia after also being staged there in 1998 and the city was also the host for the 2008 World Athletics Indoor Championships.
As with these two previous championships, the venue will be the Luis Puig Velodrome, one of Spain’s premier indoor athletics facilities.
“The Spanish federation’s ability to organise outstanding continental and global athletics events goes almost without question and Valenica has been a host city for several major championships in the past, so we know it has a proven and reliable infrastructure,” commented European Athletics President Dobromir Karamarinov.
“But two additional factors were especially impressive in the Valencia presentation to the European Athletics Council: their commitment to engaging the local community and also what their bid committee have called the ‘Green Leap’, their sustainable legacy for these championships.
“On behalf of European Athletics, I can say with absolute confidence that Valencia will be a wonderful host for these championships,” added Karamarinov.
"We are delighted and thrilled. This decision fills us with joy and eager anticipation as we prepare to showcase the best of European athletics in our beautiful city,” responded Royal Spanish Athletics Federation (RFEA) President and European Athletics Council member Raul Chapado.
“The RFEA is excited to embark on this journey of excellence and celebration, uniting athletes, fans of athletics, and the community in a shared love for the athletics.
“We thank European Athletics for their trust in Valencia and Spanish athletics. Join us in this thrilling adventure as we create unforgettable moments and write a new chapter in the history of European Athletics.
“Valencia welcomes Europe with open arms and a heart brimming with excitement,” added Chapado.
"Valencia once again finds itself at the epicentre of elite sports. This city boasts extensive experience in managing major sporting events, and the European Athletics Indoor Championship is poised to be another success, carrying significant economic and sporting implications for the city,” said Mayoress of Valencia María José Catalá.
“We are committed to hosting an unforgettable championship for athletes and all residents of Valencia,” she added.
The 173rd European Athletics Council meeting continues Saturday and Sunday.