[2][3] During 2013, Plovdiv and Sarasota, Florida both applied to host the 2017 World Rowing Championships.

In April 2013, a committee of International Rowing Federation (FISA) officials visited Sarasota and then Plovdiv the following month.

It was then noted that Plovdiv had hosted the 2012 World Rowing Championships and bid documentation for 2017 had not been finalized.

[4] Before the next FISA congress, the bid from Plovdiv was changed to apply for the 2018 hosting rights.

[5] At the FISA Congress held on 2 September 2013, hosting rights were assigned by unanimous decision for World Rowing Championships to Sarasota for 2017, Plovdiv for 2018, and Plovdiv for the 2015 World Rowing U23 Championships.