Seven candidates are in the running for the prestigious position of International Olympic Committee (IOC) president, a role that becomes available only every 12 years. The election, scheduled for March, will see one of these candidates succeed Thomas Bach, the current president who will step down in June after serving the maximum 12-year term.
The candidates include Prince Feisal al Hussein from Jordan, Sebastian Coe from the UK, Kirsty Coventry from Zimbabwe, Johan Eliasch from Sweden-Britain, David Lappartient from France, Juan Antonio Samaranch Jr. from Spain, and Morinari Watanabe from Japan.
Key Details About the Election
The IOC election meeting is set to take place on March 18-21 in Greece, near Ancient Olympia. Approximately 95 eligible voters, including members of royal families, diplomats, lawmakers, businesspeople, sports leaders, and current/former Olympic athletes, will participate in the election.
Responsibilities of the IOC President
The IOC president oversees a not-for-profit organization based in Lausanne, Switzerland, managing substantial revenues generated from broadcasting and sponsor rights for the Olympic Games. The role requires expertise in sports management, athlete advocacy, and political acumen.
Power and Influence of the IOC President
The IOC president wields significant influence within the Olympic family, impacting decisions on future host cities, committee appointments, and international diplomacy. The president plays a pivotal role in shaping global sports calendars and fostering diplomatic relations.
Challenges and Decisions Ahead
Key decisions facing the next IOC president include selecting a host for the 2036 Summer Games, negotiating broadcast deals, and addressing the reintegration of Russia into international sports amidst ongoing geopolitical tensions.
With the upcoming election poised to shape the future of the IOC, the global sports community eagerly anticipates the selection of the organization's next leader.
