The news broke on Monday. Sir Craig Reedie passed away at the age of 84. His death came as a shock to the Olympic Movement, given his extensive CV and his role in numerous leading institutions and events. After a career as a badminton player, he began his leadership journey with the Scottish Badminton Union, before becoming president of the International Biathlon Union in 1981, working tirelessly to have his sport included in the Olympic program – a goal achieved in Barcelona in 1992. His influence, however, extended far beyond the world of badminton.
"Unwavering defender of integrity"
Craig Reedie joined the IOC as a member in 1994. He served on the Executive Board from 2009 to 2012 and as Vice-President from 2012 to 2016. He was also the third President in the history of the World Anti-Doping Agency, serving two terms from January 2014 to December 2019. He notably had to manage the sensitive issue of Russian doping. The IOC emphasizes in its press release that he has “ He masterfully led WADA during one of the most turbulent periods in sport – the revelation of systematic manipulation of the anti-doping system in Russia – drawing on his highly respected diplomatic skills. ».
« We have lost a true gentleman and a staunch advocate in the fight against doping., regrets his successor, Witold Banka. He was a man of great integrity and, as a sportsman at heart, he was convinced that sport shows us that it is always possible to do better – a conviction he put into practice in the leadership of WADA. David Lappartient praised a friend, a tireless leader in British and international sport, and also a remarkable WADA president ", with whom he worked for many years in his role as president of the UCI.
« Sir Craig Reedie dedicated his entire life to the service of sport and the Olympic Movement.Kirsty Coventry points out. He was an unwavering champion of integrity, guiding the global sporting community through some of its most challenging moments with dignity and determination. His contributions to the Olympic Games, to the integrity of sport, and to the development of athletes worldwide will leave a lasting legacy for generations to come. "The Olympic flag will be flown at half-mast for three days at the Olympic House in Lausanne to honour his memory."
The London Footprint 2012
Craig Reedie will also remain one of the key figures in London's bid to host the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games, as president of the British Olympic Committee (1992-2005) and director of the organizing committee. Sebastian Coe, president of the Paris 2020 Organizing Committee, worked closely with him. Craig was a mentor, a wise advisor, and a great friend.he wrote on XThe road to London 2012 marked the beginning of a long and cherished friendship. Craig's role in securing the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games was immeasurable. Without Craig and his leadership at the head of the British Olympic Association, we might never have won the right to host London 2012. »
Terribly sad news to hear about Sir Craig Reedie and my thoughts are first and foremost with his beloved wife, Lady Rosemary, his children Colin and Catriona, and his grandchildren.
— Seb Coe (@sebcoe) April 6, 2026
Rosemary and Craig were a powerhouse couple in global sport. They were engaging, hospitable, kind… pic.twitter.com/K56Yl5lLqi
« Craig was a sportsman at heart, but he had the mind and tenacity of a politician.Coe continued. He was tenacious, wise, shrewd, and above all, loyal to those who wanted to serve the sport. He was genuine and never hesitated to speak his mind. He was refreshingly frank and always on the front lines of every battle. And, on the rare occasions when he was wrong, he admitted it, explained his position, and apologized. The very embodiment of a gentleman. "His contribution was recognized with the title of Knight Grand Cross of the Order of the British Empire in 2018 and of the Olympic Order in 2023."
