It is the first time the Championships, which are due to take place from June 26 to July 6, will have been held in Finland despite the country's outstanding success in the sport. 

Finland's men won the Paralympic gold medal at London 2012, beating Brazil in the final.

It was their second title in the Games, having also won at Atlanta 1996 and claimed the silver medal at Barcelona 1992. 

They also have the second best record in the history of the World Championships. 

The biggest goalball events previously held in Finland were the 1991 European Championships and the B-level European Championships in 2008. 

"Our aim is to arrange the Games that make you feel like you just can't miss this one," said Johanna Ikäheimo, chair of the Organising Committee.

"And after the tournament there will be tears of joy and affection in the cheeks of participants."

Finland's men celebrate winning the gold medal in goalball at London 2012, the second time they had won the title having also triumphed at Atlanta 1996

Erkki Miinala, a member of Finland's winning team at London 2012, is hoping that the home crowd can help inspire them to another big triumph.

"I'm the type of player that bursts into flames in front of big crowds," said Miinala, who is from Espoo.

"I hope there will be a good show in Espoo."

Finland, Brazil, Canada, Turkey and the United Stateshave already qualified for the men's tournament.

Finland, Brazil, China, Japan, Sweden and the US have already booked their places in the women's event.

There will be total of 16 men's teams and 12 women's competing in the Championships.

The remaining places are due be filled after the IBSA Regional Championships later this year.

To coincide with the launch of the event the official website is also now live and can be accessed by clicking here.  

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