High above Hamburg, the draw event for the Women’s World Championship took place on Tuesday. All speeches and statements underlined the enthusiasm and the anticipation for the event.
Andy Grote, Hamburg Senator for Interior and Sport: "Hamburg is truly enthusiastic about handball, fans in Hamburg are particularly pleased to host the final round and to witness a shining and memorable event in Hamburg, the city of Handball. With professional organizing staff and volunteers, Hamburg and all other six hosting cities will provide teams and fans with a fascinating spectacle, we will spread the love for handball and we are looking forward to a simply wunderbar tournament.”
IHF President Dr. Hassan Moustafa: "We hope for one of the best world championships, Germany have the know-how to organize big events, we have a good experience with Germany, and a lot of spectators will be expected."
Andreas Michelmann, President German Handball Federation: "We want to carry women’s handball into a new spotlight with this event. 20 years after the last Women’s World Championship and ten years after the last Men’s World Championship on German ground, we are pleased to host this tournament again. We thank the IHF for the trust in us and we hope for a memorable December in Germany. Our team will play in a very interesting group, but I am sure that we will proceed to the next stage, not only as we play on home ground."
World Championship Ambassador Grit Jurack: "20 years ago, when I played a World Championship on home ground, was one of the best experiences ever, it was really good. Germany will be perfect in the organisation of the World Championship, therefore it will be great for the teams and spectators. I am sure that the German team will make it to Hamburg – at least to the semi-final and maybe will win a medal. The Netherlands are my favourites in the German group, so we will duel with Serbia and Korea for the second rank."
Mark Schober, Secretary General of the German Handball Federation: "We witnessed an entertaining and interesting draw in a brilliant location. I am sure that we will deliver a great event and make all teams and fans from all over the world happy."
