The International Association of Athletics Federations today insisted the 2005 World Championships will not be moved from London despite reported financial concerns surrounding the proposed Picketts Lock venue.
Reports in Britain over the weekend suggested the north London site, pinpointed for a brand new 43,000-seat stadium, is under threat after a government assessment likely costs to be too much.
An original estimate of Stg£87million has now reportedly risen to over £100million, prompting speculation the project is to be scrapped with the government unwilling to pour in the extra cash.
However, no official announcement has been made and the government remain committed to staging the championships in the capital.
"We have heard nothing officially," said IAAF spokesman Giorgio Reineri: "There can be a decision of the council, but before we make any official declaration we have to hear what the organising committee will say to us."
The IAAF, the world governing body, will not make any decisions until the 27-man council meet in November.
"It is up to the council to decide," Reineri said. "The problem is not Picketts Lock, the problem is in changing the city.
"The championships were awarded to London and to change the city is impossible. Like the Olympics, if you change the city you change everything."
UK Athletics confirmed Picketts Lock as the venue in January after initial hopes that athletics would be part of the Wembley Stadium redevelopment were dashed. London were the only bidders for the 2005 championships so alternative international venues appear scarce.
And with the IAAF insisting on London as the host city, alternative venues in Britain, such as the Commonwealth Games stadium in Manchester or Cardiff's Millennium Stadium are ruled out.
PA