Qatar among 7 possible bidders for 2021, 2023 swim worlds

LAUSANNE, Switzerland (AP) Qatar is among seven countries preparing bids to host the swimming world championships in 2021 or 2023.

Swimming's governing body, known as FINA, says Argentina, Australia, China, Germany, Japan and Turkey have also expressed interest.

Qatar hosted the short-course swimming worlds, competing in a 25-meter pool, for FINA last December.

FINA says it hopes to choose two hosts for its marquee event later this year. Potential candidates are being called to a meeting with FINA on June 30.

The worlds are held every two years and include swimming, diving, open water swimming, synchronized swimming and water polo.

The next world championships open July 24 in Kazan, Russia.