Linz’s excellent geographical location, with the TipsArena as a modern stage and the experience of hosting numerous top events, make the Danube metropolis the perfect location for the 2024 title fights. around 50 nations with a total of 600 players, coaches and officials will fly the flag in Linz and giving Upper Austria the opportunity to present itself as a top location throughout Europe.
„The sporting state of Upper Austria is the sporting home of the current European table tennis champion Sofia Polcanova as well as the top international addresses Linz AG Froschberg (women) and Felbermayr Wels (men),“ emphasises Markus Achleitner, Provincial Councillor for Economic Affairs and Sport, who sees a huge advertising value for Upper Austria in the European Championships and is firmly convinced „that these European Championships will generate a lot of enthusiasm and represent a milestone in sport.“
For ÖTTV President Wolfgang Gotschke, being able to organise a major event such as the European Championships is „a mega thing“. In addition to the agreement and very good cooperation with Upper Austria, our gratitude naturally goes to the federal government, as well as Vice-Chancellor and Sports Minister Werner Kogler, who is providing significant support for the organisation of the European Table Tennis Championships. We have to join forces to manage a budget of just over 2 million euros for the European Table Tennis Championships,“ said the association president, adding: „We want to be a perfect host and, thanks to our strong partners, we are confident that we will succeed. The anticipation is huge!“
Local hero Sofia Polcanova, who returned from the European Championships in Alicante 2018 and Munich 2022 with three medals each, wants to do everything she can to extend her impressive collection of precious medals in Linz. „Major sporting events such as international title decisions are among the absolute career highlights for every athlete. When you can experience something like this almost on your own doorstep, it’s even more special,“ enthuses the defending champion, who is „particularly looking forward“ to a loud crowd and the support of the red-white-red fans.