At Hakata Station Square on 14 July, the Fukuoka Organising Committee held a talk show with a number of Japanese Olympic medallists and coaches. Moreover, on 16 July, the Rio 2016 200m backstroke gold medallist Rie Kaneto held a swimming clinic for local residents at the Fukuoka Nishi Civic Pool.

A series of local aquatics classes and initiatives were also held to provide families and young children the opportunity to try out different disciplines, including artistic swimming.

“I have no doubt that the beautiful city of Fukuoka will be a very special FINA World Championships for everyone involved. With more than 2,000 athletes from around 190 countries expected to compete, Fukuoka will be a global celebration of aquatics,” said FINA President Husain Al-Musallam.

“I can’t wait to join thousands of fans in the stands, watching the world’s best aquatics athletes compete on the biggest stage. With a total of 76 events across all six disciplines, Fukuoka will inspire a whole new generation of aquatics stars in Japan and around the world.

“I would like to take this opportunity to wish the very best of luck to all the athletes, coaches and officials preparing for FINA’s most prestigious competition.”

The 20th FINA World Championships Fukuoka 2022 will be held in Fukuoka, Japan, from 14-30 July 2023.