Despite the disappointment, this weekend has been hugely successful for British Triathlon. Tim Don won the world title yesterday, Will Clarke won the under 23 title and Alistair Brownlee won the junior event - all by considerable margins.

The sport of triathlon in Britain is on a high and Salford remains firmly committed to attracting world class events.

"Despite an outstanding record for hosting four successful Triathlon World Cups, Salford lost out in what was an extremely competitive international bid process," said John Merry, the Leader of Salford City Council.

"We would like to take the opportunity to congratulate Budapest on their success. Although Salford was not selected on this particular occasion, we will still continue to drive the city's reputation on the international sporting circuit and are committed to delivering events of a world class calibre."

Jasmine Flatters, Chair of British Triathlon commented: "Despite the outcome today, British Triathlon is still committed to staging world class triathlon events in the UK and is looking forward to the next major focus on the sporting calendar - the 2012 Olympics."

John Scott, International Director at UK Sport, said: "Bidding for major sporting events is becoming increasingly competitive and whilst we are obviously disappointed by the news, we should take satisfaction from the fact that the bid put forward by Salford was as well-prepared and comprehensive as it could have been."

Peter Mearns, NWDA Director of Marketing, said: "All of our regional partners have worked hard to support Salford's bid to host the 2010 BG World Championships, so today's decision is very disappointing for the Northwest.

"However, with  a Major Events Strategy firmly in place, along with an increasing number of forthcoming high profile events already secured, we are confident that the region will continue to build on its excellent reputation for hosting world class major events."

Don said: "It's such a shame. It would have been fantastic to have a World Championship in Britain just two years out from the Olympic Games.

"I heard a rumour that Budapest were looking strong but I was hoping Salford would win.They've staged some great World Cup races and hopefully we'll be back at the Quays in 2007.”