The International Canoe Federation has welcomed Spain’s ambitions to create a top-level flatwater venue in the country.
ICF President Thomas Konietzko and ICF Vice President Lluis Rabaneda met with Spanish Sports Minister Jose Manuel Rodriguez Uribes during their trip to Madrid this week.
They also held discussions with Spanish Olympic Committee President Alejandro Blanco, Spanish Canoe Federation President Javier Hernanz and ICF Honorary President José Perurena.
Spain is one of the most successful countries in Canoe Sprint, yet it does not have a venue that meets the requirements to hold international competitions.
During the discussions, an agreement was reached by the Spanish officials to create a Working Committee to assess the feasibility of the construction of an international flatwater venue close to Madrid.
Mr Konietzko has pledged his support behind the plans with the aim of creating a legacy for canoeing in Spain.
“Spain has one of the best teams in the world in Canoe Sprint, but it has no venue which meets international standards,” said Mr Konietzko.
“This is why we addressed this topic when we spoke with the Secretary of State for Sport and asked him to help us.
“The Secretary of State promised that he would establish a Commission with the Spanish Canoe Federation and the Spanish NOC and we offered to use our experience to develop a legacy plan for this venue.
“We highlighted that this venue should not only be used to host international events as it should also provide added values for society and local kids.”
The ICF leadership visited the headquarters of both the Spanish Olympic Committee and Spanish Canoe Federation and went to Spain’s Higher Sports Council.
Spain has won five Olympic golds in canoeing, with four of those coming in Canoe Sprint.
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