As the International Olympic Committee (IOC) prepares for its first presidential election since 2013, seven IOC members have stepped forward as candidates to succeed Thomas Bach. The manifestos of these candidates highlight key issues and challenges facing the IOC and global sports.
Some common themes among the candidates include addressing climate change and sustainability, engaging with youth through social and digital media, utilizing AI technology, and safeguarding women's sports. However, there are notable differences in opinions regarding the payment of prize money to Olympic athletes and the level of engagement with IOC members in shaping the organization's future and selecting host cities.
One prominent candidate, Sebastian Coe, a former Olympic gold medalist and current World Athletics president, emphasizes the need for a reset around sport while advocating for clear, science-based policies to protect the integrity of women's sports. Coe also aims to decentralize decision-making within the IOC and provide athletes with a more meaningful role in the process.
Other candidates include Kirsty Coventry, a two-time swimming gold medalist from Zimbabwe, who focuses on strengthening existing IOC policies and empowering various commissions within the organization. Johan Eliasch, a newcomer to the IOC, emphasizes the importance of experience and innovation, proposing ideas such as rotating Winter Games among permanent venues and promoting gender policy in sports.
Prince Feisal al Hussein of Jordan highlights his extensive background in military service and diplomacy, advocating for increased participation of IOC members in decision-making processes and valuing athletes' contributions. David Lappartient, the president of the International Cycling Union, aims to streamline IOC operations, enhance athlete representation, and promote diversity in Olympic host selections.
Juan Antonio Samaranch Jr., an IOC Vice President, presents a detailed manifesto focusing on expanding commercial opportunities, enhancing member engagement, and modernizing broadcast rules. Morinari Watanabe, the president of the International Gymnastics Federation, proposes innovative ideas such as staging the Olympic Games across all continents and restructuring the IOC's decision-making structure.
With a diverse range of candidates and visions for the future of the IOC, the upcoming election on March 18-21 in Greece will shape the direction of the organization for years to come.
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