The International Olympic Committee’s (I.O.C.) president election has become increasingly contentious as the vote approaches in Greece. Candidates are engaging in smear campaigns, spreading unsubstantiated claims and personal attacks on social media and private emails.
Leading contenders Juan Antonio Samaranch and Sebastian Coe have been targeted by allegations of wrongdoing, including claims of supporting authoritarian regimes and engaging in unethical campaign tactics. The I.O.C.’s chief ethics official has reviewed the complaints but deemed them “fairly routine matters.”
Despite denials from candidates’ aides, the allegations have created deep unease among election officials. The winner will be tasked with managing complex relationships with world leaders, including President Trump, and addressing pressing issues like Russia’s doping scandal and transgender athlete debates.
In a heated campaign, personal attacks are becoming more aggressive. Prince Faisal bin Al Hussein has been accused of having ties to his brother, Jordan’s king, while Johan Eliasch has faced criticism for his role in the sporting goods company Head. The I.O.C.’s ethics commission is also investigating two complaints, but election officials remain tight-lipped about their findings.
As the vote looms, candidates are engaged in quiet politicking ahead of a scheduled vote in Costa Navarino, Greece. The outcome is uncertain, with some fearing that uncovered election violations could disrupt the process.
Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/03/19/world/europe/ioc-president-race-olympics.html