The qualification system for the 2019 IAAF World Championships in Doha have been REVERTED back to the old qualification system. Initially, the IAAF had announced it would be incorporating its new World Rankings System as a part of the qualifying procedures for the 2019 World Championships. After concerns raised globally, including concerns raised by the AAC and IAAF representative Stephanie Hightower, they have decided to stick with the old system for another year.
After carefully listening to groups across the global athletics community, it is apparent while there is broad support for a new world rankings system, there is still work to do to give full confidence that the points-based system is equally fair to all athletes and in all regions.
The IAAF’s primary concern, as always, is for the athletes. So while uncertainty remains in the points-based process, the IAAF will extend the period of consultation.
To do this without impacting the training regimes and preparations in advance of the IAAF World Athletics Championships next year, the IAAF Council agreed to stick with the existing qualification system.
The IAAF Council has also agreed to introduce the new world rankings system as planned for the 2019 season so all athletes and all federations can follow it in real time and become more familiar with the process before they become the primary qualifying route for the major championships.
