Pau canoe slalom world cup to go ahead next week despite France’s lockdown
Despite France being on lockdown since Oct 30th, the ICF and the French Federation confirms the Slalom World Cup stage held in Pau (France) Nov 6th-8th will take place!
Next week’s canoe slalom world cup (November 6-8) will go ahead after the International Canoe Federation, the French Canoe Federation and the Pau organising committee finalised discussions with local authorities.
The ICF world cup is one of several international sporting events which are exempt from Covid19 restrictions in France.
A strong cooperation between the ICF, the French Canoe Federation, the Pau Béarn Pyrénées Urban Community, the host organising committee and all local authorities has been a key factor in enabling this event to take place.
This competition will gather 23 National Federations from 5 continents, including many of the world’s best athletes.
However many restrictions will be in place. There will be no spectators permitted at the course, and all participants will need to document their daily travel to and from the venue.
“The event will be broadcast live by various major TV channels and we look forward to some exciting races.”
“These are such uncertain times, so to be able to host many of the world’s best slalom paddlers at a world-class event is a great boost especially for our athletes who have indicated some struggles during this difficult time,” ICF secretary general, Simon TOULSON, said.
“The hosting is testament of the great cooperation between the French Canoe Federation and local authorities and is key to the event being able to proceed while protecting everyone involved.
“The event will be broadcast live by various major TV channels and we look forward to some exciting races.”
French Canoe Federation president Jean ZOUNGRANA said it is a good outcome for the athletes, who have been starved of top-level competition in 2020.
“As president of the French Federation I am extremely happy to be able to welcome the athletes and allow them to compete,” he said.
“We must do everything for our athletes and ensure that they are in the best conditions to perform and maintain their health.”
The ICF canoe slalom world cup will also be streamed live on www.canoeicf.com