The Secretary General of the Ukraine Triathlon Federation, Eduard Panarin, has reiterated his strong desire that the ETU Sprint European Cup in Dnepropetrovsk will go ahead as planned on 24th May 2014.

Political uncertainty has engulfed Ukraine in recent months, however, Panarin has assured all athletes, coaches, and National Federations preparing for the race that it is completely safe to travel to Ukraine and compete.

The General Secretary said in a statement: “As per our agreement with the LOC in Dnepropertrovsk and the Ukrainian National Federation we will do our best to make this event a success.

“We’d like to assure everyone that all the efforts needed to ensure a safe and successful race are well underway.

“We are sure our European Cup will provide the ultimate sporting emotion and a wonderful experience in one of the biggest cities in Ukraine.

“We look forward to welcoming the triathlon family to our City and I look forward to meeting you all there.”

The race in Dnepropetrovsk will be an historic moment as the first ever ETU European Cup race to be held in the country.

ETU President Renato Bertrandi said: “We are in constant contact with the Ukraine Federation in order to have news regarding the race in Dnipropetrovsk.

“The National Federations is working hard to make it happen and the ETU will do everything in its power to keep the race on the due date.”