In a significant statement, Juan Antonio Samaranch Jr., vice-president of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and a candidate for the presidency, has called for the reinstatement of Russia into the Olympic movement. Samaranch, whose father served as IOC president from 1980 to 2001, believes that Russia’s suspension should be lifted the moment it adheres to the Olympic Charter once again.
Samaranch, speaking in Budapest, pointed out that the Russian Olympic Committee (NOC) is currently in violation of the Olympic Charter by taking control of sports organizations in certain territories. This move led to the IOC’s decision to exclude the NOC. However, Samaranch clarified that Russia’s suspension was not a direct consequence of the invasion of Ukraine. Instead, it stemmed from Russia’s failure to respect the Olympic truce by initiating the war in 2022, just after the Beijing Olympics concluded and before the Paralympic Games began.
He stressed that the IOC must maintain its neutrality and avoid taking sides in conflicts. “The minute we take sides, you are excluding the other side, a part of the world,” Samaranch emphasized. He pledged to uphold the Olympic movement’s “independence and universality,” arguing that without these principles, the IOC would fail to fulfill its purpose of uniting people despite differences, controversies, and conflicts.
Samaranch also addressed the rapid development of artificial intelligence (AI), expressing hope that it can help bridge the gap between wealthy and less-developed nations. He emphasized the need for the IOC to leverage technological advancements.
On the complex issue of transgender athlete participation, Samaranch advocated for a “level playing field” while stressing the importance of ensuring fair competition for all athletes. He acknowledged the delicate balance between recognizing transgender athletes’ rights and safeguarding the interests of other competitors. “We can’t afford to discourage girls, future women champions,” he remarked, highlighting the conflict between two fundamental human rights.
Thomas Bach, the current IOC president, announced his intention to step down after the Paris Olympics. The candidates vying to succeed him will present their programs to IOC members in January before the election in March. The successful candidate is scheduled to take office in June.
