IOC presidential candidates to present visions ahead of March election

LAUSANNE -The seven candidates for the International Olympic Committee (IOC) presidency will present their visions to IOC members during a closed-door meeting at Olympic House on Thursday, a pivotal moment for the future of the Olympic movement.

Since unveiling their detailed written manifestos in December, the candidates have been in the spotlight with their proposed visions and strategies for the IOC's development. Now, they will have the opportunity to present their ideas in person in a more direct and engaging format.

According to IOC rules, each candidate was allowed to visit the meeting room separately on Wednesday for a 10-minute session to test the facilities, including a PowerPoint presentation if needed. On Thursday, each candidate will have 15 minutes to present, with no Q&A sessions.

The order of presentations was determined by a draw held in November. Prince Feisal Al Hussein will speak first, followed by David Lappartient, Johan Eliasch, Juan Antonio Samaranch Jr., Kirsty Coventry, Sebastian Coe and Morinari Watanabe.

Outside the meeting room, the IOC will organize a media opportunity for journalists attending in person at Olympic House. A 10-minute live Q&A session will also be streamed via the IOC Media YouTube channel.

The election is set for the IOC Session in Greece from March 18 to 21. Candidates will not give presentations during the session. The new president will officially take office on June 23, Olympic Day, after a transitional period alongside Thomas Bach, who will step down after 12 years as IOC president.