Sochi in Russia has been stripped of the right to host the 2017 bobsleigh and skeleton World Championships.
A statement from the governing body, the International Bobsleigh and Skeleton Federation (IBSF) has just confirmed the change on Tuesday evening.
2014 Winter Olympics Opening Ceremony, Sochi, Russia 7/2/2014
General view as one of the Olympic rings fails to open
Image: ©INPHO/Ian NcNicol
The federation stated that: "The IBSF Executive Committee felt that during this difficult time it is prudent not to organize such an event in Russia. This decision was made for two primary reasons:
"1st: to allow athletes and coaches from all Nations to participate in a competition that focuses on sport rather than accusations and discussions – whether justified or not.
"2nd: The Russian Bobsleigh Federation has put a great effort in the preparation of the World Championships, but the current climate would make it nearly impossible to appreciate the efforts of the Organizing Committee to host a great event or the quality of the Sanki Sliding Center as one of the best tracks in the World."
Sochi previously hosted the 2014 Winter Olympics. A new host city will be announced soon.
Download the brand new OffTheBall App in the Play Store & App Store right now! We've got you covered!
Subscribe to OffTheBall's YouTube channel for more videos, like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter for the latest sporting news and content.
