Final preparations are underway for the 144th Session of the International Olympic Committee (IOC), which is set to take place on Thursday in Costa Navarino, Greece. This session will be particularly significant as it will determine the election of the 10th President of the IOC, succeeding Thomas Bach.
With the conclusion of Bach’s tenure, the election of a new President will mark a pivotal moment for the future direction of the Olympic Movement. A total of seven candidates are vying for the prestigious role, each bringing a distinct vision and background to the leadership of the IOC.
The candidates for the position are:
- Sebastian Coe – President of World Athletics and a former Olympic gold medallist in middle-distance running. Coe played a key role in delivering the successful London 2012 Olympic Games and has extensive experience in sports administration.
- Kirsty Coventry – Former Zimbabwean swimmer and multiple Olympic medallist. Coventry has been involved in sports governance, serving as a member of the IOC and holding various leadership roles within Olympic sports.
- Juan Antonio Samaranch – Son of former IOC President Juan Antonio Samaranch Sr., he has served as an IOC Vice President and has been involved in Olympic development and governance for years.
- David Lappartient – President of the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI), Lappartient has been a strong advocate for innovation and governance within international sports.
- Prince Feisal Al Hussein of Jordan – A prominent advocate for sports development in the Middle East, Prince Feisal has played a significant role in promoting youth participation and gender equality in sports.
- Morinari Watanabe – President of the International Gymnastics Federation (FIG), Watanabe has championed reforms and global growth in gymnastics.
- Johan Eliasch – Business executive and President of the International Ski Federation (FIS), Eliasch has worked extensively on sustainability and climate-related initiatives in sports.
The newly elected President will officially assume office on 23 June, marking the beginning of a new leadership era for the International Olympic Committee. The incoming leader will be tasked with steering the Olympic Movement forward in an ever-evolving global sports landscape, ensuring the continued success and integrity of the Games while addressing challenges such as sustainability, inclusivity, and the impact of emerging technologies in sports.
The election of the new President will be closely watched by the global sporting community, as the outcome will shape the future of the Olympic Games and the broader mission of the International Olympic Committee in the years ahead.
