Global Sports Leadership at Stake in High-Stakes IOC Race
Seven candidates from five continents will compete for the International Olympic Committee (IOC) presidency in Greece from March 18-21, marking one of the most diverse leadership races in Olympic history. The election outcome will shape global sports policy through the 2032 Brisbane Games and beyond.
Prince Feisal Al Hussein of Jordan, current head of his nation's Olympic Committee, emphasizes unity with his 'bridge gaps' campaign vision. French cycling federation leader David Lappartient champions grassroots development under the motto 'Sport in Our Hearts,' while Japan's Morinari Watanabe proposes hosting simultaneous Olympic events across multiple continents.
Notable contenders include Zimbabwean Minister Kirsty Coventry, a former swimming champion advocating sport's 'transformative power,' and Britain's Sebastian Coe, the World Athletics president promising structural reforms. Swedish-British ski federation leader Johan Eliasch focuses on financial sustainability, declaring: 'The Games must inspire while securing their economic future.'
The election concludes with a June 23 leadership transition from incumbent Thomas Bach, who served since 2013. Candidates' platforms address critical challenges including climate-responsible events, youth engagement, and balancing commercial interests with Olympic values.
