INNSBRUCK, January 16,2012 - The 75th AIPS Congress in Innsbruck concluded with significant  announcements. While Russian Sochi is set to host the delegates in 2013, prior to the Winter Olympics, the capital city of Azerbaijan, Baku was chosen as the host of the AIPS Congress of 2014.

In the last decades, Azerbaijan has been constantly changing and Baku took great leaps forward towards becoming one of the most modern sports capitals of the world.  

“The sports world of Azerbaijan has been booming after the country became independent” said Dr. Chingiz Huseynzada Vice-President of the country’s National Olympic Committee.

Indeed, the athletes from the country have made remarkable successes during international competitions, while the construction and continued support of sports organizations and infrastructure within the country itself has made a major impact. 

In recognition of the Azerbaijani capital’s achievements, Baku has been frequently chosen to host significant international events, including the European and World Championships. In 2008 the city was first shortlisted to host the 2016 Olympics, while last year Baku has made the second bid for summer Olympic games of 2020. 

Indeed, the invitation of the international sports media to the Congress in Baku has perhaps never received such kind of direct support from the host State. The Azerbaijani President IIham Aliyev is the head of the country’s NOC, and thus the AIPS Congress will become a State matter for Azerbaijan. 

“Bringing the AIPS Congress to the city would immensely benefit all of us”. The attendance of representatives of world sports media would make an immense difference for the regional journalists, giving them an opportunity to exchange experiences and heighten their level. At the same time, Baku would be a remarkable experience for the international journalists. “We are absolutely positive that we are able to host the Congress on the best possible level” stated Huseynzada