HELSINKI, July 4 (Xinhua) -- The International Ski Federation (FIS) has awarded the southern Finnish city of Lahti the hosting rights for the 2029 FIS Nordic World Ski Championships, according to a press release by the city issued on Thursday.
The contract for organizing the games between FIS, the Finnish Ski Federation, and the city of Lahti was signed on Thursday. This marks the city's eighth time hosting the event and is expected to be the largest sporting event of the decade in Lahti, as stated in the release.
Lahti's mayor, Niko Kyynarainen, emphasized the event's role in reinforcing Lahti's position as a leading winter sports city in Finland and Europe.
The Championships will bring together over 1,500 team members from more than 60 countries and regions, as announced.
The event is anticipated to attract a cumulative audience of 300,000. The economic impact on Lahti and its region is projected to reach 40.1 million euros, with additional benefits in social, ecological aspects, as well as employment. Over 3,000 volunteers will participate, offering residents various opportunities for involvement.
The FIS Nordic World Ski Championships has been organized since 1924 and is currently held biennially. ■
