Thomas Bach has become the ninth president of the International Olympic Committee and succeeds Jacques Rogge who is standing down after 12 years. Photo: Alexander Hassenstein / Getty Images
The German Thomas Bach has been elected as the International Olympic Committee president, which makes him one of the most powerful figures in world sport and global affairs.
Bach had long coveted the presidency, which is awarded for an initial eight-year term, and ran a sophisticated lobbying campaign in which the Kuwaiti Sheikh Ahmad al-Sabah played a controversial role.
Bach, a 59-year-old former Adidas executive, who joined the IOC in 1991 and has held a number of influential roles, will replace Jacques Rogge to become the organisation’s ninth president in its 119-year history.
Rogge unveiled his successor to a standing ovation from the 102 members present at the IOC’s session here that had already decided Tokyo should host the 2020 Games and wrestling should retain its Olympic status.
“This makes me happy. I want to lead the IOC according to my motto – unity in diversity. I want to be a president for all,” said Bach.
“I will do my very best to balance well all the needs of the stakeholders of the Olympic movement. You should know my doors, my ears and my heart are always open to you.” – The Guardian
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