Japan all set to host 2019 World Relays

Japan is all set to host the 2019 International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF) World Relays, beginning May 11.

The development came after IAAF council voted this week to award the prestigious event to Yokohama city of the country.

Reflecting on the same, IAAF President Sebastian Coe said that he is confident that Japan would do a great job despite the short preparation period.

"I am delighted that Yokohama has stepped in to host our youngest World Athletics Series event and I am confident that they will do an outstanding job despite the short preparation period," IAAF quoted Coe, as saying.

"Several of our Member Federations expressed interest in hosting the popular IAAF World Relays next year and I thank them for their efforts, which confirm the appeal of what is a very entertaining team-based competition with a unique spirit," he added.

The President of the Japan Association of Athletics Federations, Hiroshi Yokokawa, also expressed excitement over welcoming the players from around the world to the country and further stated that it is an honour and privilege for Japan to receive the baton.

"The Bahamas have left important footprints on the history of athletics by organising the IAAF World Relays for the past three editions, and it is an honour and privilege for Japan to receive the baton from them," Yokokawa said.

After The Bahamas Government confirmed that it would no longer be able to offer the financial guarantee that underpinned the event in Nassau, several member federations contacted the IAAF directly to express their interest in hosting the 2019 World Relays. Following a careful consideration, Japan was considered to be the preferred location.

The first three editions of the IAAF World Relays, in 2014, 2015 and 2017, were held in the Bahamian capital.