IOC President Thomas Bach to Step Down Next Year, Citing Need for Leadership Change

Thomas Bach, president of the International Olympic Committee (IOC), announced on Saturday that he will step down from his role next year, citing a need for new leadership to address the evolving challenges facing the Olympic movement.

Bach, who has led the IOC since September 2013, confirmed he will not seek to alter the rules to extend his presidency, which is set to end in 2024.

Addressing IOC members on the penultimate day of the Paris Games, the 70-year-old Bach emphasised the importance of adhering to governance standards to maintain the IOC’s credibility. He expressed that a change in leadership was necessary to navigate the increasingly digital and politically complex landscape of global sports, and to build relationships with emerging powers in the “Global South.”

Bach’s decision marks the end of a 12-year term, following a term limit introduced as part of reforms after the Salt Lake City bidding scandal 25 years ago. Despite speculation that he might extend his tenure, Bach reassured members that the rules would be respected.

An election for Bach’s successor will be held during the IOC meetings scheduled for March 18-21 in Greece. Potential candidates include IOC vice presidents Nicole Hoevertsz of Aruba and Juan Antonio Samaranch Jr. of Spain, as well as board members Prince Feisal al Hussein of Jordan and former Olympic swimmer Kirsty Coventry of Zimbabwe. Notably, Sebastian Coe, head of World Athletics and a two-time Olympic champion, is also considered a leading contender, though his candidacy may be affected by the IOC’s age limit rules.

Bach has recently been seen as promoting David Lappartient, president of the International Cycling Union, who has been involved in significant initiatives like the Esports Olympic Games deal and a successful bid for the 2030 Winter Games.

Bach, a gold medalist in fencing from the 1976 Montreal Olympics and a lawyer with a background in sports politics, will work with his successor during a transition period before officially stepping down on June 23, coinciding with Olympic Day. He reiterated his commitment to the IOC’s high standards of governance and expressed his willingness to support his successor passionately.