Lahti Aims to Host the 2029 World Ski Championships Amid Financial Challenges

Lahti, along with the Lahti Ski Club, is steadfast in its goal to host the 2029 World Ski Championships. The bid was officially submitted in Reykjavik, Iceland, marking Lahti as the only contender for this prestigious event.

However, the Finnish Ski Association is grappling with a challenging financial landscape, complicating the plans to host the championships. To accommodate these concerns, the International Ski Federation (FIS) has extended the bid deadline by one month.

Negotiations regarding local cost-sharing agreements are currently underway among the Finnish Ski Association, the city of Lahti, and the Lahti Ski Club, following initial discussions in Reykjavik.

Janne Marvaila, executive director of the Lahti Ski Club, reported that the feedback from FIS regarding Lahti's bid was overwhelmingly positive. All the decision-makers visiting Lahti have acknowledged the region's exceptional facilities and the commitment of its volunteers. FIS perceives a strong enthusiasm for hosting the 2029 championships in Lahti.

The Nordic Skiing World Championships are highly significant for both the local ski club and the city itself. Marvaila underscored the community's ardor and ambition to excel in this arena, as the event presents an invaluable opportunity for local youth to compete at home.

Mayor Niko Kyynäräinen emphasized the potential economic benefits of hosting the championships, estimating that it could bring over 40 million euros to the region.

Should Lahti successfully secure the 2029 championships, it would solidify its position as a leader in hosting such events—marking an impressive eighth occasion for the city. Kyynäräinen stressed the importance of maintaining Finland and Lahti's presence on the global stage through high-profile competitions, describing the event as a matter of national interest.

Despite the financial complexities inherent in hosting a major event, Kyynäräinen remains optimistic that an agreement will be reached among the ski association, the club, and the city, believing that the most daunting challenges have already been surmounted in the final stages of preparation.