Deaflympics - ICSD Update

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2013 Athens - There has been no organizing committee in Athens since 2009.

With no formal expression of government support for hosting the Deaflympics, conditions are not favorable.

The Greek government expects to make a final announcement in the days or weeks ahead.

Alternative host cities are being sought and seriously considered.

2015 Vancouver - The organizing committee has dissolved.

The Canadian Deaf Sports Association has formally handed back the right to host the 2015 Winter Deaflympics and bidding will be reopened.

2017 - With bidding still open for 2017, ICSD understands that the Mayor of Barcelona has declined to commit to financial support for hosting the Deaflympics there.

The bid has not formally announced its withdrawal and municipal elections are expected in Barcelona on 22 May.

Buenos Aires (ARG) remains as a bidder.

A vote is expected at the ICSD Congress in Rome, 13-15 September.

"ICSD fully understands the concerns of deaf athletes around the world, when it comes to the future of the Deaflympics," said ICSD President Craig Crowley.

"Deaf sport is now faced with some immense challenges, due to decisions made as long as four years ago. The future is uncertain, but one thing is clear: ICSD will need the support of partners throughout the sports world. And we'll need the continued efforts of every ICSD member country in order to overcome these challenges."