Cancellation of FINA Swimming World Cup Singapore 2020

SINGAPORE, 27 JULY– The Singapore Swimming Association (SSA), in consultation with the Federation Internationale De Natation (FINA), today announced that the FINA Swimming World Cup 2020 Singapore leg, to be held from 4 to 6 September at the OCBC Aquatic Centre, has been cancelled in response to the continued health concerns posed by COVID-19.

The event attracts more than 6000 spectators and nearly 200 international swimmers every year. The current COVID-19 situation prohibits mass gatherings and has restrictions on worldwide travel. Thus, it is unattainable to hold the event this year as people’s safety takes precedence.

“Following discussions with FINA and Sport Singapore, we have decided to cancel the FINA Swimming World Cup this year. The health and safety of the fans, athletes and everyone involved in the running of the event is our highest priority and we are supportive of the nation’s effort to minimise the transmission of the COVID-19 and protect our people. We are hoping that the situation will get better and looking forward to hosting the event next year. To all our swimmers, officials and fans - stay safe and keep swimming,” said President of SSA Lee Kok Choy.

The FINA President Dr Julio C. Maglione said: “2020 has been a very challenging year worldwide and Aquatics is no exception to this difficult situation. Always in close co-operation with SSA, we believe this is the most appropriate decision in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. FINA is well aware of the issues faced by aquatics athletes around the world, and their safety and well-being is of utmost concern and importance. We look forward to returning to Singapore in 2021.”

“As presenting sponsor of the FINA Swimming World Cup in Singapore, we would like to see the event competed under a safe environment, and we understand that it is not possible during this period due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The health and well-being of all fans, athletes and spectators alike, should be of utmost importance. We therefore fully understand and support the decision of both FINA and SSA to cancel the FINA Swimming World Cup Singapore for this year”, added Mr Hiroyuki Kawada, Managing Director of Yakult Singapore.
 
The schedule for the FINA Swimming World Cup 2021 will be announced at a later date.