European Athletics Championship to still go ahead in Birmingham
It's after doubts from Birmingham City Council's financial woes.
Last updated 12th Jan 2024
West Midlands Metro Mayor, Andy Street, has announced that the European Athletics Championship will be going ahead in Birmingham in 2026.
There's been doubts whether the event will be able to be held, amid the financial woes at Birmingham City Council.
But Mr. Street has confirmed funding will be provided by the West Midlands Combined Authority to make sure the event goes ahead.
In a social media post Andy Street, said the championship was in "severe doubt" but they've "stepped in and upped our funding".
Another thing Mr. Street is looking at doing is boosting cash for grassroots sport.
Birmingham City Council have had to scale back their money for the lower level sports, as they battle to save 300 million pounds over the next few years.
In a statement from Birmingham City Council, it said: “We welcome the positive outcome of the WMCA board today, confirming additional funding for the delivery of the European Athletics Championship 2026.
"Hosting world class events at the Alexander Stadium is an important continuing legacy from the Commonwealth Games for Birmingham and the West Midland Region.
"We will now continue to work with event’s funders and stakeholders to complete the necessary steps finalise the overall funding position for the Championships.”