Tony Estanguet will be proposed as independent individual member of the IOC this week during the 144th session of the organization, in Greece. The former canoeist, who had already been member between 2013 and 2021, should thus make his return to the body after having led the Paris 2024 OCOG.. "I have a lot of respect for this organization, he confides to Le Parisien. I've been attached to the Olympics since I was a kid. The Games exist thanks to the IOC. At the end of my term on the Athletes' Commission in 2021, Thomas Bach told me: "I'm sure you'll come back one day." He came back to me after the Paris Olympics, and I was very honored." The Pau resident will have the role of "to ensure that the Games continue to grow". : « I feel indebted because they changed my life and I have a responsibility."
Riding the wave of success of the Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games, Tony Estanguet could have become Minister of Sports. He also received proposals from “large groups to occupy positions of responsibility”.Although he preferred to decline, he is pleased with the popularity of the Paris Games teams. « When I see Marie Barsacq bounce back, I am proud, he explains about the former director of impact and legacy of OCOG, who became Minister of Sports. It shows that there is recognition for what she has done. There are many profiles like hers at Paris 2024. This dream team will continue to flourish in France and internationally. »
