On 31 July, the Finnish Athletics Federation (SUL) submitted the official bid book for the 2030 European Athletics Championships in Helsinki to the European Athletics Association (EA).
“What started as a dream has now become a goal. The idea of hosting the European Championships in Helsinki was born two years ago during the U23 Championships in Espoo,” says SUL President Riikka Pakarinen.
Helsinki’s strengths when it comes to the 2030 European Athletics Championships bid are Finland’s, the capital region’s and Helsinki’s solid reputation for hosting major international sporting events, broadcasting expertise, short distances and the renovated Olympic Stadium, which offers top-tier conditions for a community-oriented experience.
“The bid enjoys strong support from both the Finnish Government and the City of Helsinki. We are sincerely grateful to all decision-makers for their backing. This project is also a pilot for the ‘Finnish Model’, a framework for how Finland can attract and deliver major international events,” Pakarinen says.
President of the European Athletic Association visits Helsinki
On Wednesday 6 August, Helsinki was visited by the President of the European Athletic Association (EA) Dobromir Karamarinov. During his visit, Karamarinov, who hails from Bulgaria, met with the Mayor of Helsinki Daniel Sazonov, Finland’s Minister of Sport Mika Poutala, Deputy Mayor of Helsinki Paavo Arhinmäki as well as Finnish Athletics Federation (SUL) President Riikka Pakarinen and CEO Harri Aalto.
The discussions centred around the bid for the 2030 European Athletics Championships, which Helsinki hopes to host at the Olympic Stadium.
“I want to congratulate Finnish athletics for making it to the final stages of the bidding process for the 2030 Championships,” Karamarinov stated.
He expressed confidence that the stadium’s stands would be filled if Helsinki is chosen to host the event.
“You have an excellent generation of young athletes who would be in their prime by then,” Karamarinov noted.
“Finland knows how to organise events, and Helsinki’s bid has been great from the start. I am pleased that you have also started bidding for major international sporting events for adults once again. Athletics has a strong role and history in your country,” says Karamarinov.
Mayor Sazonov: Helsinki aims to be Europe’s best host city for events
“The Olympic Stadium is a historic building. The greatest events held there can leave memories that span generations," says Sazonov.
“Major championships in sports like athletics and football raise Helsinki’s profile across Europe and create unforgettable experiences for both locals and visitors,” Sazonov continues.
Minister of Youth, Sport and Physical Activity Mika Poutala, who was known as a successful speed skater before his political career, warmly welcomes Finland’s ambition to pursue success and major events.
“Finland wants to strengthen its role as a host of international sporting events, as international competition for hosting rights continues to intensify. These events offer memorable experiences, foster a sense of community, and reinforce Finland’s identity as a sports nation. They also carry significant economic benefits; generating growth, creating jobs and boosting Finland’s nation branding efforts,” says Poutala.
Helsinki is competing for the hosting rights of the 2030 European Athletics Championships alongside Brussels (Belgium) and Zurich (Switzerland). The host city of the 2030 European Athletics Championships will be decided by the European Athletics Council in October 2026.
