The International Orienteering Federation World Cup event in Neuchâtel will also double up as the European Orienteering Championships next year ©IOF

The International Orienteering Federation (IOF) World Cup event in Neuchâtel will double up as the European Orienteering Championships next year.

Competition will run in the Swiss city from May 13 to 16 2021. 

The rescheduling of the European Championships became necessary when Russia had to withdraw from hosting the event because of the economic impact of the coronavirus pandemic. 

The IOF approached organisers in Switzerland with the request to modify the programme of the planned World Cup round, which was accepted. 

Athletes will compete in a sprint, a sprint relay, and a knock-out sprint, in what will also count as the the first round of competition for the overall Orienteering World Cup title.

The long-distance competition initially planned for the World Cup event is cancelled.

"We feel that this is a very good solution," said IOF secretary general Tom Hollowell.

"We know that the Swiss organisers are very experienced and appreciate their positive attitude in making this possible. 

"Following the cancellation of all major international events in 2020 this will be an excellent start to the 2021 season."

The IOF also tentatively confirmed the dates of this year's Junior World Orienteering Championships, which are set to be held in Turkey from October 10 to 16. 

Competition has been rescheduled from the original dates in July, with a final decision on whether the event can be held due to be made by July 1.