"We have tried our best to turn the actual crisis into an opportunity to do something completely different. We are excited about the result and we are convinced that it will become a very special event. We also remain true to our tradition and our dedication to include a Paralympic event. Last but not least there will be an emotional thanksgiving to all the health workers and other essential professionals who gave the best of themselves to guide us through this coronacrisis."
"I also do want to explicitly thank all our partners”, adds Van Branteghem. “In these difficult times it is not for granted to continue their efforts in support of the sports. We are very thankful to AG Insurance that they have decided to continue their support for one more year as a title sponsor, as well as the City of Brussels, the Region of Brussels Capital, Visit Brussels and all the other partners."
Hans De Cuyper, CEO van AG: "These times are difficult for all of us, but the lockdown has very severely hit the business of cultural and sports events in particular. Under these circumstances and after 6 years of intense and loyal partnership AG wanted to act responsably. The AG Memorial Van Damme belongs to our National Heritage and therefore it deserves our special support."
"As we've done in all the years before Brussels is still very happy and proud to host this Memorial", says Benoit Hellings, City Councelor of Sports. “This is one of the most important athletics events in the world and it puts Brussels time and again at the international sports scene. Especially this year the City and I are honoured with the signal that the organisers are sending around the world. They let the athletes in any sports know and they let the sports fans in Brussels, in Belgium and across the borders know that sports is back, alive and kicking."
UPDATE 28 JULY 2020:
The original plan was that a few thousand spectators would attend the 44th AG Memorial Van Damme on 4th September. However, as the COVID-19 situation is getting worse again, the organisation took the decision on 28th July to hold the upcoming edition without spectators.
