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Bach's decision has partly been influenced by the criticism he faced for defending gender row boxer Imane Khelif's right to compete.
Thomas Bach, the President of the International Olympic Committee (IOC), has announced that he will step down from his role next year, adhering to the 12-year term limit set by the Olympic Charter.
The 70-year-old made the announcement during the IOC General Assembly in Paris, putting an end to speculation that he might seek to extend his tenure.
Bach, who has served as IOC President since 2013, emphasized the importance of leadership change for the organization. "A leadership change is best for our organization," Bach explained. "At my age, I'm no longer the best captain. New times need new leaders."
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13:45 - 11.08.2024
Noah Lyles gives update over his COVID-striken status
Lyles has provided an update over his COVID-19 status four days after being diagnosed with the disease moments after bagging bronze in the 200m final.
There had been discussions among some IOC members about the possibility of amending the Olympic Charter to allow Bach to extend his term.
The 12-year limit was introduced as a reform measure in the 1990s to combat corruption within the organization. However, Bach has chosen not to pursue this path, despite the support he received.
"These conversations have moved me deeply and touched my heart," he said, acknowledging the sentiment among some IOC members.
As Bach prepares to step down, attention is turning to potential successors, with Britain’s Lord Sebastian Coe among those speculated to be in the running for the top position.
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12:00 - 11.08.2024
Why Justin Gatlin will not denounce Noah Lyles for running men's 200m final with COVID-19 virus
Justin Gatlin has shared why he will not condemn Noah Lyles for running with the COVID-19 virus in the men's 200m final at the Paris Olympics.
Coe, a former Olympic champion and current President of World Athletics, is seen as a strong candidate to lead the IOC into a new era.
Bach’s tenure has not been without controversy, particularly in recent months. His summer has been dominated by questions regarding the IOC’s decision to allow boxers Imane Khelif and Lin Yu-Ting to compete in the Paris 2024 Olympics.
The boxers had been alleged by the Russia-dominated International Boxing Association to have failed a gender test, leading to their ban from the World Championships.
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19:38 - 10.08.2024
Michael Johnson gives advice to Noah Lyles & Co over failure to embrace other Olympics medals
The American sprint legend has urged athletes who missed out on gold but won other medals at the Paris Olympics to be content with what they won since it is still ‘greatness.’
However, Bach has remained resolute in his support for their participation in the Games. "This system is working and so therefore our decision is clear. Women should be allowed to take part in women's competitions and the two are women," he stated firmly.
As Thomas Bach prepares to conclude his time as IOC President, his legacy will be marked by both his efforts to modernize and reform the Olympic movement and the challenges he faced in navigating the complex landscape of international sports governance.
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