Nordic Youth World Championships Moved To Lahti

The FIS Council has today approved the Finnish Ski Federation's proposal to transfer the Nordic Championships for Young People from Vuokatti to Lahti. The Young World Championships 2019 was previously awarded to Vuokatti, but earlier in the spring it became apparent that the competitions for the jump championships are unlikely to be possible within the planned timeframe and that they will not be able to qualify for the International Ski Federation certificate.

The Finnish Ski Federation has been closely involved with FIS and potential alternative organizers. The parties' view is that Lahti will be able to organize a world-class event at this very short preparation time. 

"It's great that Lahti is able to meet the challenge very tightly, and all the organizing parties, the Ski Federation, Lahti City, Lahti Events and the Lahti Ski Federation have shown strong commitment to organizing Nordic Championships in the Nordic countries. An experienced organization can organize the event with high quality despite the timetable challenges. Young people's MM event is a rare treat in Finland, "commented Mika Kulmala, Executive Director of Ski Federation  .

An important advantage in Lahti was the successful organization of the 2017 World Championships and the ultimate in performance.

"We are delighted that the excellent tradition of the 2017 World Cup in Lahti will continue in Lahti just for youth competitions," added Sarah Lewis, Secretary General of the International Ski Federation  .

A week-long race event is a demanding but also an enjoyable effort for the Lahti Ski Championship. 

"Youth work is important to Lahti Ski Championship and it's great to have a young world-class event where young athletes can enjoy one of the best stadiums in the world," said Juha Kolu, President of the Lahti Ski  Club .

Youth World Championships will be held in late January 2019. The Congress will confirm the exact date. The event includes under 20-year-old cross country skiing, ski jumping and combined as well as new species for the first time formally combined girls. The event will also compete for cross-country skiing under 23 years of age.