Qatari bid to rival London's for 2017

Qatar won the right to host the World Cup thanks to incredible plans, such as the proposed Doha Port Stadium (EPA)

UK Athletics will have to see off a formidable challenge from Qatar if they are to succeed in their bid to host the 2017 world championships.

Qatar's Olympic committee yesterday announced a bid by Doha for the event which UK Athletics hope will be based at the Olympic Stadium in London. Rome and Istanbul are also considering bids.

But Doha's entry will cause most concern to UKA given Qatar's recent track record in bidding for big events, including the 2022 football World Cup.