French Olympic champion Denis Gargaud Chanut is set to me among the competitors in the men's C1 ©Getty Images

The Canoe Slalom World Cup in Pau in France is set to go ahead next weekend, despite the country entering a national lockdown.

The International Canoe Federation (ICF) says that is has finalised an agreement with the French Canoe Federation (FFCK), the Pau Organising Committee and local authorities for the event to take place from November 6 to 8.

Certain international sporting events have special dispensation to continue despite fresh COVID-19 restrictions coming into force in France, and the Canoe Slalom World Cup is one of them.

It will be only the second World Cup leg of 2020, following an event in Tacen in Slovenia, because of the disruption caused by the global health crisis.

There will be no spectators to reduce the risk of transmitting the virus, while athletes' movements will also be tracked.

"These are such uncertain times, so to be able to host many of the world’s best slalom paddlers at a world-class event is a great boost especially for our athletes who have indicated some struggles during this difficult time," ICF secretary general Simon Toulson said.

Pau staged the ICF Canoe Slalom World Championships in 2017 ©Getty Images
Pau staged the ICF Canoe Slalom World Championships in 2017 ©Getty Images

"The hosting is testament of the great cooperation between the French Canoe Federation and local authorities and is key to the event being able to proceed while protecting everyone involved.

"The event will be broadcast live by various major TV channels and we look forward to some exciting races."

There will be six events at the World Cup - men's and women's canoe, extreme canoe and kayak.

The entry list features athletes from 23 different countries, with all five ICF continental associations represented.

FFCK President Jean Zoungrana added that he was "extremely happy to be able to welcome the athletes and allow them to compete".

"We must do everything for our athletes and ensure that they are in the best conditions to perform and maintain their health," Zoungrana urged.