International Olympic Committee (IOC) president Thomas Bach calls for unity in sport at IF Forum

GENEVA: International Olympic Committee (IOC) president Thomas Bach has emphasised the critical need for unity in the sporting world amidst increasing geopolitical tensions.

He conveyed this message while welcoming attendees to the 2023 International Federation (IF) Forum in Lausanne, Switzerland, on Monday.

Speaking at the Olympic Museum, Bach highlighted sport’s ability to unite people, particularly during times of division. He emphasized the crucial need for solidarity in addressing the current global challenges facing the sports world. “The current geopolitical tensions are extremely complex. In such times, the unifying power of sport is more important than ever before,” said the IOC chief. “To be such a unifying power, it is essential that we all stand together.”

“Today, millions of people around the globe are longing for such a unifying force that brings us all together in our so confrontational world. Our role is clear: to unite - and not to deepen divisions. Therefore, we carry an important responsibility - to stand together for the power of sport and to live up to our shared mission to make the world a better place through sport.”

Bach then stated that the upcoming 2024 Paris Olympic Games could serve as “a symbol of unity and peace,” capable of uniting the world. “We all share the expectations of millions of people around the globe,” he noted.

“They all have to experience so many divisions and confrontations in their daily lives that they are longing for something that unifies us, something that gives us hope, something that gives us optimism. After the pandemic, people are longing to come together again.”

The IOC president also discussed the imminent future in the digital realm, where rapid advancements in AI and esports present both opportunities and challenges for the Olympic Movement. He informed attendees about the mission of the newly formed IOC Esports Commission, chaired by IOC Member and International Cycling Union (UCI) president David Lappartient, to explore the creation of the Olympic Esports Games. IANS

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