IOC Session Commences in Ancient Olympia Ahead of Presidential Election
The IOC session has opened in Ancient Olympia as it prepares for the election of a new president. Outgoing President Thomas Bach highlights the session’s significance in linking to the IOC’s ancient roots. Seven candidates are vying for the position, with voting set for Thursday by about 100 IOC members, who will determine the new president for an eight-year term.
The International Olympic Committee (IOC) inaugurated its session in Ancient Olympia, Greece, heralding the impending presidential election scheduled for Thursday. Outgoing President Thomas Bach addressed the audience, which included IOC members and Greek President Konstatinos Tasoulas, offering a brief reference to the election where seven candidates will vie for the organization’s leadership role.
The IOC, known as the wealthiest multi-sport organization globally with approximately $7 billion in revenues per four-year cycle, emphasizes the significance of this session as a connection to its historic roots.
“This is exactly what this session is about. A sacred pilgrimage to our ancient past,” remarked Bach. He offered homage to the modern origins of the IOC and voiced his confidence in the future, anticipating the election of a new president as he prepares to step down after 12 years in office.
The candidates for the presidency include prominent figures: David Lappartient, Juan Antonio Samaranch Jr., Sebastian Coe, Kirsty Coventry, Prince Feisal Al Hussein, Morinari Watanabe, and Johan Eliasch. While no clear favorite emerges like Bach did in 2013, Coe, Samaranch, and Coventry are viewed as having beneficial positions in the race.
On Thursday, approximately 100 IOC members comprising federation leaders, national Olympic committee presidents, and other dignitaries will participate in the voting process. The new president will be elected for an eight-year term, with the option for re-election allowing a maximum service period of 12 years in total.
Reporting by Karolos Grohmann; Editing by Ken Ferris
The IOC session in Ancient Olympia serves as a significant event leading to the election of a new president, promising a transition for the organization. Seven candidates are competing for leadership, including notable figures such as Sebastian Coe and Kirsty Coventry. With a voting assembly of around 100 IOC members, the process emphasizes the IOC’s commitment to its historic legacy while looking toward the future under new leadership. The new president will embark on an eight-year term, fulfilling the role’s high expectations and responsibilities.
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