Statement by the Mayor of the City of Katowice, Mr. Marcin Krupa

Dear Ladies and Gentlemen,

Katowice is a city that embraces recreation, which is why the World Bridge Series could not be missing from our municipal calendar.

Our city is a modern urban center where sport plays a vital role. Katowice is renowned for hosting international sports competitions, which frequently take place in the legendary Spodek Arena or the adjacent International Congress Center. It is often said that the atmosphere created during these events is truly unique and unmatched anywhere else. Prestigious titles such as the “city of great events” or the “mecca of Polish volleyball,” which Katowice holds, further confirm the City’s sporting priorities.

Our local government also attaches great importance to the athletic engagement of its residents. Therefore, each year we secure funds in the budget for the expansion of sports and recreational infrastructure, focusing particularly on new swimming pools, pitches, paths, and bike stations. We also co-fund sports clubs operating within the city.

The City’s initiatives actively support educational institutions, universities, as well as sports clubs and associations. It is there, thanks to professional training staff – instructors and coaches – that not only children and youth, but also adults have the opportunity for athletic development, assessing their physical condition, and training their skills. The spirit of sport is highly active in Katowice, which is why I am very pleased that the Polish Bridge Federation has chosen our city to host its event. I am convinced that the welcoming spaces of the International Congress Center will help the players focus on the game and choose the optimal strategy that will lead them to victory.

I wish all the participants of the Championship the best of luck in the games, and the fans many sports emotions that will ensure the World Bridge Series is remembered with fond memories.

Marcin KrupaMayor of the City of Katowice