The Australian city will stage the fifth edition of the event which crowns world champions in the non-Olympic disciplines of duathlon, cross triathlon, aquathlon, aquabike and long-distance triathlon.

It will be the largest sporting event to ever be staged in Townsville with 8,000 athletes and fans expected in all.

Organisers also hope that AUD$18 million (£9.7 million/$12.8 million/€11.3 million) will be pumped into the local economy.

"Over the past years, Australia has become synonymous with the sport, playing host to some truly memorable performances and great champions, staging races the results of which have helped shape the path of entire seasons," said ITU President Marisol Casado.

"Once again there will be five World Championship titles up for grabs across the ten days of competition at its best."

Casado added: "Being able to hold these important races in one fantastic location and all under the banner of one festival has proved to be hugely beneficial for athletes, spectators and media alike, allowing the global ITU family the opportunity to gather together for a true celebration of the sport, and we are extremely excited to head to Townsville in 2021."

This year's Multisport World Championships are due to held in Pontevedra in Spain between April 27 and May 4.

Kate Jones. Queensland's Tourism Industry Development Minister, said: "This is a big win for Townsville and will enhance the city's reputation as a world-class destination for major events.

"We invest in events like these because they attract tourists to Townsville and support local jobs.

"Securing the ITU Multisport World Championships will also benefit one of the region's most high-profile events - the Townsville Triathlon Festival - which will be significantly expanded ahead of the World Championships."

Duathlon is a run-cycle-run discipline, while cross triathlon features swimming, mountain biking and trail running.

Aquathlon is swimming and running and aquabike is swimming and cycling.