2020 Anniversary Games in London cancelled due to pandemic

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The Anniversary Games in London have been cancelled because of the coronavirus pandemic, UK Athletics has confirmed.

London Stadium had been scheduled to host the event – also part of the Diamond League season – on 4-5 July.

UK Athletics is “hugely disappointed” to cancel the Games, its chief executive Joanna Coates said.

“It will have a significant financial impact on UK Athletics and wider sport,” Coates added.

“The revenue we generate from events – through ticketing, broadcast and sponsorship – helps administer the sport and provide the essential governance services that we, as an NGB [national governing body], oversee.

“But we must place the safety of the entire athletics family at the forefront of every decision we make during these unprecedented times and ensure we are following government advice.”

In March, Coates said UK Athletics’ finances would take “a hefty blow” if the global pandemic meant it could not be held at London Stadium, which is Premier League club West Ham’s home ground.

UK Athletics modifies the stadium each summer to stage the track and field competition, but there is a possibility West Ham may still be using the stadium in July if the suspended football season resumes.