The International Olympic Committee (IOC) Executive Board has accepted the resignation of IOC President Thomas Bach, which will take effect on June 23, 2025. His departure will coincide with the election of a new IOC President, set to take place on March 20, 2025, in Costa Navarino, Greece.
Bach officially submitted his resignation after announcing at the IOC Session in Paris that he would not seek another term, despite requests from some IOC Members for him to do so.
Thomas Bach’s Legacy with the IOC
Thomas Bach became the ninth President of the IOC on September 10, 2013, and was re-elected for a second term in March 2021. His presidency has seen major reforms aimed at modernising the Olympic Movement.
Before leading the IOC, Bach had a successful career as an athlete, winning a gold medal in fencing at the 1976 Montreal Olympics. He also played an important role in sports governance, including serving as the first President of the German Olympic Sports Confederation (DOSB) in 2006 and as an athlete representative at the 1981 Olympic Congress in Baden-Baden.
Bach’s Long Career and Contributions
Bach’s involvement with the IOC spans over 30 years:
- 1991: Elected as an IOC Member
- 1996: Joined the IOC Executive Board
- 2000-2013: Served as IOC Vice-President for over 10 years
- Chaired multiple IOC commissions
Bach’s decision to step down marks the end of a significant era in Olympic leadership. His successor will be expected to build on his legacy and guide the IOC into the future.
