Seven candidates have announced their bids to succeed Thomas Bach as the International Olympic Committee (IOC) president. The election is set for March 18-21, 2025, in Athens, Greece. Bach, who has served the maximum 12-year term, will step down in June.
The potential new president could be a groundbreaking figure—possibly the IOC’s first female leader, or the first from Africa, Asia, or Britain. The role, based in Lausanne, Switzerland, involves overseeing a financially robust organization, managing sports governance, and navigating international politics.
The IOC president influences decisions on Olympic hosts, committee appointments, and engages in diplomatic efforts. Bach’s tenure saw significant moments, including the Sochi 2014 Winter Games and the 2022 Beijing Winter Games. The next president will face challenges like selecting the 2036 Summer Games host and addressing global sports calendar shifts.
The selection for the 2036 Summer Games is set to be highly competitive, with strong bids from India and Qatar. India’s major cities, like New Delhi and Mumbai, are contenders due to their growing infrastructure and enthusiasm, while Qatar’s Doha boasts advanced sports facilities from recent events. The IOC will assess these bids based on infrastructure, financial stability, legacy plans, and political factors, with the final decision impacting the future of the Olympics.
The incoming IOC president will need to address key issues such as potential reintegration of Russia into international sports and the future of Olympic broadcasting deals. The new leader will play a critical role in shaping the future of the Olympic movement amidst evolving global challenges.
