IOC Prepares for Leadership Change as Presidential Election Nears

Sebastian Coe, Kirsty Coventry, and Juan Antonio Samaranch Jr. emerge as frontrunners in the race to succeed Thomas Bach as IOC president.

• The International Olympic Committee will elect its next president on March 20, 2025, at Costa Navarino, Greece, with voting expected to involve multiple rounds.
• Outgoing president Thomas Bach, stepping down after 12 years, was named honorary president for life during the IOC session on March 19.
• Kirsty Coventry could make history as the first woman and African to lead the IOC, while Juan Antonio Samaranch Jr. seeks to follow in his father’s footsteps as president.
• Sebastian Coe, known for his leadership in World Athletics and the London Olympics, is also a leading candidate, emphasizing reform and broader member involvement.
• The next president will oversee a $7 billion organization and face challenges including climate change, geopolitical tensions, and preparations for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.

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