Every day has its own candidate. After Thomas Bach, Ng Ser Miang, CK Wu and Richard Carrion, the Swiss Denis Oswald has added his name to the list of contenders for the presidency of the International Olympic Committee. The head of the International Rowing Federation (FISA) was among the possible successors to Jacques Rogge. He bided his time. She arrived this Friday, May 24.
“I have the honor to announce that I will be a candidate for the presidency of the IOC during the next session in Buenos Aires,” explained Denis Oswald in a short press release. Everything but a surprise, as the ambition of this former rower, bronze medalist at the Mexico Games in 1968, was no secret to anyone.
The lawyer and law professor, who turned 65 a few days ago, is expected to say a little more at a press conference, announced for June 3 in Lausanne. But he specifies: “My 40 years of service to the Olympic movement have given me a broad knowledge of our organization and its influence in the world. This knowledge, combined with the skills recognized in me, should allow me to advance the Olympic cause and establish the authority of the IOC as a leader in world sport. »
The IOC, Denis Oswald, knows almost everything, even in the most hidden corridors. He has worked on all the most important commissions, notably chairing the coordination commission for the Athens 2004 and London 2012 Games. He served on the executive commission from 2000 to 2012. President of FISA for 24 years, the Swiss had announced his intention to hand over during the Congress in September 2013. A departure in two stages, Denis Oswald having to retain his function for a few months, before leaving it completely to his successor.
Obviously, the name of Denis Oswald is firmly established among the favorites to succeed Jacques Rogge. The Swiss perfectly masters the mysteries of the IOC. He is multilingual, unifying, experienced and can rely on an international federation, FISA, with an impeccable image.
Who will be the next candidate to declare? Two names are fueling the conversations, both from athletics: Serguei Bubka, pole vault world record holder and president of the Ukrainian Olympic Committee, and Moroccan Nawal El Moutawakel, vice-president of the IOC. Answer, for sure, before June 10, the deadline set by the IOC for applying.
Photo Christian Galley
