The head of the London Marathon has urged West Ham United to show more 'heart and soul' as the club's refusal to vacate the London Stadium threatens to derail Britain's bid for the 2029 World Athletics Championships. Hugh Brasher, a member of the London 2029 bid team, expressed concerns that the football club's stance could scupper the nation's chances of hosting the event.
West Ham has declined to give up the stadium for approximately two weeks in September 2029, as the football season will be underway. The situation is further complicated by the club's potential relegation and the departure of vice-chair Karren Brady. Brasher noted that while money often dictates decisions in football, sometimes clubs must consider their heart and soul.
Brasher recalled his father Chris's words from a 1979 Observer article proposing the London Marathon: 'London had the course, but did it have the heart and the soul to welcome the world?' He posed a similar question to West Ham, asking if they have the heart and soul to open the stadium for the championships.
Talks with West Ham are expected in June, but Brasher acknowledged that relegation to the Championship would add complexity due to more games. He remains hopeful, citing support from the government, the mayor, the public, and athletes. 'We have to get through West Ham. I believe we can,' he said.
Other contenders for the 2029 championships include Rome, Munich, Nairobi, and an Indian city. Final bids are due by early August, with a decision in September. Brasher's comments follow similar appeals from athletes like Keely Hodgkinson, who claimed the GB team would bring more medals to the stadium than West Ham's entire history.
