World Athletics boss Sebastian Coe highlights the importance of cross country for endurance athletes before World Championships

World Athletics President Sebastian Coe emphasizes the significance of the World Athletics Cross Country Championships in Belgrade. The event is scheduled to kick off on Saturday, as Coe highlights how cross-country running acts as a stepping stone to success on various terrains. Speaking at a pre-event press conference, Coe expresses his gratitude for the athletes’ support in spreading this essential message.

Coe expresses his delight in being part of the World Athletics Series event in Belgrade following the successful World Indoor Championships in Glasgow. With almost 500 athletes from 50 teams set to compete at the Championships, Coe acknowledges Belgrade’s swift and committed efforts in hosting the event. He looks forward to witnessing athletes use this platform as a springboard towards the upcoming Olympic Games in Paris.

Mayor of Belgrade, Aleksandar Sapic, extends a warm welcome to the global athletics community. Proud to host this prestigious event for the fourth time, Sapic wishes all athletes a successful and memorable stay in Belgrade. Defending champions Beatrice Chebet and Jacob Kiplimo express their optimism in returning home with more medals for Kenya and Uganda, respectively.

Three-time European cross-country champion, Karoline Bjerkeli Grovdal, shares her excitement for her first World Cross event since 2010. As she seeks to test her form and training progress, Grovdal reflects on her love for cross country while also enjoying the challenges of road and track events. Serbian athlete Elzan Bibic looks forward to showcasing his talent on home soil and aims for a strong performance in the mixed relay event, hoping to make Serbia proud.