The commencement ceremony has been characterized as flexible, and the IOC has adjusted to this adaptability. In general, it is also understandable: in today’s world, everyone, whether individual or organization, must be somewhat adaptable, like a chameleon.
Thomas Bach, the president of the IOC, has moved up his usual end-of-Games press conference to today, effectively avoiding the need to hold another one at the end of tomorrow’s IOC Session. During this session, there will likely be discussions about the outcomes of this extraordinary edition of the Games, and maybe even an attempt to make an exception to the rules of the Olympic Charter to allow Bach to continue his efforts in advocating for sports, which is currently a challenging task.
In a jesting manner, the president mentioned that he is unaware of any further media appointments as the responsibility lies with the IOC spokesman Marc Adams…
SHAKE THE TREE – During the previous session in Mumbai, Mustapha Berraf, president of the Association of African Olympic Committees, unexpectedly requested to speak. He argued that it was crucial to find a way for Bach to continue leading the presidency during this difficult period, even if it meant bending the rules of the Olympic Charter. Although a vote was not immediately called, the intent was to “shake the tree” and see how many fruits fall for further consideration.
THE WHISPERS – Since the beginning of these Games, there has been ongoing speculation in elite circles about Bach’s future path: whether he will announce his departure next year and make way for a successor, or if he will entertain the idea of amending the Olympic Charter to allow for an extension of his tenure under exceptional circumstances. There is also the legal option of altering the rules to permit a third term in office.
FANTASIES – Some dismiss these discussions as mere fantasies, claiming that there is no real issue regarding Bach’s term coming to an end. However, his response to a specific question on this matter raises eyebrows: “I cannot discuss this, as per the ethics commission requirements.” If he truly accepted the conclusion of his mandate, he could have addressed the question without hesitation, as the Ethics Commission would have no reason to intervene.
FLUIDITY – Even the Ethics Commission appears to have taken on a fluid approach in this intriguing Paris setting. They remained uninvolved when the decision was made to award the 2030 Winter Games to the French Alps, despite originally planning a Session in Milan. This shift shows a certain level of fluidity in the current system for selecting host candidates.
HYPOTHESIS – Should Bach extend his term beyond 2025, it could dash the hopes of aspiring successors like Sebastian Coe and Juan Antonio Samaranch Jr. Instead, it may benefit rising star David Lappartient, a skilled politician and the current president of the UCI who, in the event of Bach’s exit, could become the frontrunner after the success of the Games.
BAN – The exclusive environment of the IOC in Paris was off-limits to outsiders, as we were denied entry to their hotel for the first time. The excuse given was a supposed lack of space in the lobby, though the ban may be indicative of a vulnerability.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of International Sports Press Association (AIPS).