Sochi in Russia has been stripped of the right to host the 2017 bobsleigh and skeleton World Championships.

A statement from the governing body, the International Bobsleigh and Skeleton Federation (IBSF) has just confirmed the change on Tuesday evening.

 2014 Winter Olympics Opening Ceremony, Sochi, Russia 7/2/2014
General view as one of the Olympic rings fails to open
Image: ©INPHO/Ian NcNicol

The federation stated that: "The IBSF Executive Committee felt that during this difficult time it is prudent not to organize such an event in Russia. This decision was made for two primary reasons:

"1st: to allow athletes and coaches from all Nations to participate in a competition that focuses on sport rather than accusations and discussions – whether justified or not.

"2nd: The Russian Bobsleigh Federation has put a great effort in the preparation of the World Championships, but the current climate would make it nearly impossible to appreciate the efforts of the Organizing Committee to host a great event or the quality of the Sanki Sliding Center as one of the best tracks in the World."

Sochi previously hosted the 2014 Winter Olympics. A new host city will be announced soon.