The upcoming IOC presidential election, scheduled for Thursday, takes place in a markedly different political landscape compared to the last significant Olympic leadership contest in 2013. According to Prince Feisal of Jordan, who is one of the candidates this year and also voted in the past election, the current race carries a distinct tone. The 2013 election was perceived as more focused on individual personalities rather than the larger context of global economics and politics, which are likely to have more influence in the current scenario. Despite a desire to keep sports free from political influence, it is evident that the Olympics operate within a global environment where such factors are unavoidable.
During the prior election in Buenos Aires, figures who are presently candidates such as Juan Antonio Samaranch and Kirsty Coventry participated as voters alongside Princess Haya, Prince Feisal’s sister and then-president of equestrian’s governing body. A memorable moment from 2013 was when recently elected IOC president Thomas Bach received a congratulatory phone call from Russian President Vladimir Putin immediately after winning the vote. Back then, Russia was poised to host the 2014 Sochi Winter Games, but subsequent events involving state-sponsored doping and geopolitical tensions surrounding Ukraine strained its relationship with the IOC.
Looking ahead, Bach’s successor faces the challenge of safeguarding the upcoming 2028 Summer Games in Los Angeles, particularly as the United States presents itself as an unpredictable ally in global diplomacy, a realm in which the IOC views itself as a key player. Prince Feisal notes that navigating complex diplomatic waters is familiar territory for Jordan, a nation situated amidst a diverse and politically intricate region.
Jordan shares its borders with Syria, Iraq, Israel, the Palestinian territories, and Saudi Arabia, making political maneuverings part of its routine. This experience shapes perspectives like Prince Feisal’s, who hopes for peaceful participations, like that of the Palestinian Olympic team, which represents one of the 206 recognized national teams. Despite uncertainties, he remains hopeful they will compete in Los Angeles, citing sports’ potential for peace and unity.
The final gathering of IOC candidates before the election took place in proximity to Ancient Olympia in Greece, with recent discussions being influenced by Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s visit to the White House. These geopolitical discussions reflect the broader impact of international relations on the Olympic movement, as observed by Prince Feisal, who has been an IOC executive board member since 2019.
There is a shared belief among Olympic officials, including Prince Feisal, that U.S. leadership under President Trump would aim for the success of the LA Olympics. Acknowledging possible challenges and the need to address diverse opinions, Prince Feisal stresses the importance of aligning Olympic values with those espoused by the U.S. administration. Whether Prince Feisal ascends to IOC leadership or continues in another capacity, he values his participation in this crucial dialogue leading up to the Los Angeles Games.
