Doha Wins Bid to Host 2018 Artistic Gymnastics World Championships

Doha in Qatar have won the right to host the 48th edition of FIG Artistic Gymnastics World Championships in 2018, apoplectic the International Gymnastics Federation (FIG) has revealed. 

As the only bidder, arthritis Qatar will welcome the FIG Artistic Gymnastics World Championships for the first time in the nation’s history. 

Bruno Grandi, President of the FIG said commented on the announcement: “I do look forward to being in Doha in 2018. I congratulate my friends Ali Al Hitmi, and Abdul Rahman Al Shathri and all those who contributed to the success of this bid, in particular the National Olympic Committee.I am confident that the Gymnastics stars of the world will feel welcomed in their second home, Qatar.”

Speaking after the bid announcement, Secretary General of Qatar Olympic Comittee (QOC) secretary general Sheikh Saoud bin Abdulrahman Al Thani said: “It is a great honour for Qatar to be granted the opportunity to host the 48th FIG Artistic Gymnastics World Championships in Doha in 2018. I’d like to thank the International Gymnastics Federation (FIG) for the trust their members have shown in Qatar and their confidence in our abilities to stage such a highly prestigious global event. 

“We are looking forward to hosting a truly memorable World Championships that is delivered to the highest possible standards. Qatar has strong foundations and commitment to Gymnastics through our successful Schools Olympic Program but hosting the World Championships in 2018 has the potential to open up the sport even further and inspire a new generation.”

The winning bid was based upon an ‘all in one’ concept with Doha ready to host the championships at renowned and state of the art Aspire Zone. 

Established in 2000, Qatar Gymnastics Federation has quickly made steady progress towards its development goals for the sport. Already a successful host of seven editions of the FIG World Challenge Cup. 

Commenting on the bid win Ali Al Hitmi, President of the Qatar Gymnastics Federation (QGF), added: “This is the proudest time in the history of Qatar Gymnastics Federation and I’d like to thank Sheikh Saoud bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, for making it possible with his ongoing support and long-term vision for Gymnastics. Our genuine commitment and love of this sport as well as its emergence within our nation has been recognised and endorsed by International Gymnastics Federation (FIG) who granted us this prestigious honour.” 

“As we look ahead the planning is already underway to ensure the worlds’ best gymnasts are given every opportunity to put on inspiring performances and live their world championships dream in Doha. The entire Gymnastics family across all international federations will all be made to feel very welcome.”

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