The 17th edition of the FINA World Championships concludes today, July 31, in Budapest (HUN), which has played host to the biggest sporting event ever hosted in the country for the past 17 days.

FINA and the Budapest 2017 Organising Committee addressed the media representatives at the closing press conference, held at the Duna Arena, before the final swimming session of the week.

“Our National Federations, our athletes, coaches and officials, lived an intense experience during these two weeks. They found outstanding venues in superb locations; they were supported by immense crowds; they produced wonderful performances; and they could enjoy the hospitality and kindness of the Magyar people.”, said the newly re-elected FINA President Dr Julio C. Maglione.

“Everything was perfect and we all felt at home here in Hungary!”, he continued.

“I am sure that these impressions will be followed by amazing figures in terms of worldwide TV viewership and digital exposure of these Championships. The 17th FINA World Championships definitively improved the strength of Aquatics in the five continents and confirmed this event as one of the most prestigious and successful ones in the world of Sport.”

After thanking the different stakeholders and the Hungarian authorities, the President let FINA Executive Director Cornel Marculescu express his gratitude and positive vision of the two-week Aquatic festival.

“These were fantastic Championships. Everybody is happy. We are here to serve the athletes and the work of the Organising Committee has been fantastic. “, emphasised Marculescu .

“Balatonfured was a fantastic venue. The set up was great. I like to compare it to the sea of Hungary. The castle at the back of the synchronised swimming venue, in Varosliget Park, pleased all the broadcasters that were able to catch incredible images of the competition. And finally, the water polo venue, already well-know, didn’t disappoint.”

Tamas Gyarfas, FINA Executive Member and Co-Chairman of the Organising Committee added a short but sincere comment: “It was a great honour for me to take part in this event, thank you all.”

“The last 17 days were a true celebration of Aquatic sports and paid respect to what we have been able to achieve together with FINA. Working hand in hand with FINA was key in the success of this event and the tree planted by Mr Marculescu is a symbol of this collaboration”, concluded Budapest 2017 Organising Committee Chairman Miklós Seszták.

“I sincerely thank the effort of FINA and the Organising Committee but also the volunteers, whose help has been greatly appreciated.”