European Athletics explains in a statement: the upcoming European Indoor Championships, scheduled for March 2-5 in Istanbul, will be held on the original dates and in the Turkish city despite the earthquake that struck the country on February 6. “Despite this huge tragedy, the Istanbul 2023 Local Organising Committee has shown its commitment and readiness to continue with its preparations for the event during this incredibly difficult time“, explains the continental body, specifying that “these championships will not be the same as others“. They will be more sober. The celebratory side-events and activities will be at a minimum. There will be no local promotion for the Championships. And a solidarity initiative has been initiated by European Athletics towards the victims of the earthquake, in the form of a donation of 1 euro for each ticket sold for the European Indoor Championships since February 7.
