The International Association of Athletics Federations on Friday inspected the southeastern city of Daegu to evaluate its bid to host the 2011 World Championships in Athletics.

Eight delegates headed by federation Vice President Helmut Digel toured the Daegu World Cup Stadium, the proposed main venue for the competition, as well as construction sites for the athletes' village and the media center.

Digel said he's been very much impressed since arriving in Daegu, noting widespread support for the bid not just from city officials but city residents as well.

He said that Korea has contributed much to global sports as host of World Cup soccer, the Olympics and the Universiad, saying that he knew from the start that Daegu would demonstrate tip-top preparation.

General Secretary Pierre Weiss of the international athletics governing body said the city's facilities and fervor are in no way weaker than those of its rival candidates. Moscow, Barcelona and Brisbane are also in the running.

The inspection team will wrap up their visit Saturday, and the final venue will be chosen March 27th.