Janez Kocijančič was the eighth President of the EOC (2017-2020). He died on 1 June 2020 at the age of 78, following a courageous battle against a sudden and severe disease.
Kocijančič was elected to the top post in November 2017 after four years as Vice President. He joined the EOC in 1997 first as an auditor and then in 2005 as a Member of the Executive Committee.
He was a great ambassador and promoter of the Olympic Movement and a true believer in the Olympic values for education, for peace and for social inclusion.
The EOC will always remember President Kocijančič fondly and with great reverence. More information on his biography can be found here.
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Janez Kocijančič was a great ambassador and promoter of the Olympic Movement and the Olympic Values. He was a true believer in the Olympic values for education, for peace and for social inclusion. For me, like many in the Olympic Movement, he was a true friend and I deeply admired the dignified way he faced his illness. We will always remember and honour him, and the Olympic flag will fly at half mast for this great man of our Olympic Movement.
Thomas Bach - IOC President
He has left a huge void in the heart of the Olympic Movement of Europe. He will be remembered for his professionalism and wise vision in profoundly understanding the diversity between the European countries. His cultural and historical knowledge was of great benefit to the sport movement in Europe and helped lead it to a prominent position globally. Janez was a true friend for me and many other Members of the EOC Executive Committee.
Raffaele Pagnozzi - EOC Secretary General
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Janez was a dear friend of all sports in Europe. He was a highly intelligent person and he will be sadly missed by all who knew him. He played a great roll as the President of the SLO NOC for many years and indeed was great roll model for all people in Slovenia. Personally as the European Canoe Association President I was honoured to call him a friend and there will be a huge vacuum in European Sport with his demise. My heart goes out to his family and friends at this difficult emotional time. There will however always be fond humorous times together with Janez that we will always treasure and remember.In the name of friends from the European Canoe Association, I am sending our deepest condolences to his family and friends. May he rest in peace.
Albert Woods OBE, ECA President
I have been fortunate to be able to call Janez a very close friend for many years and so this news is deeply saddening for me, as it is for the many friends that he had throughout the Olympic Movement. We worked together for a long time and as President of EOC and Vice-President of ANOC, it was clear how dedicated he was to promoting the interests of NOCs and their athletes. He was always ready to speak up for what he believed in and his passion and commitment will be sorely missed by all of us. Our thoughts are with his friends and family at this very difficult time.
Gunilla Lindberg - ANOC Secretary General
Janez was a deeply respected member of the NOC family and the Olympic Movement as a whole. His passing is a great loss to all those who knew him and all those who had the privilege of working with him over his long and decorated career. His immense contribution to the Olympic Movement will be his lasting legacy and ensure that he lives long in the memory of all of us.
Robin Mitchell - Acting ANOC President
All of us at the Hellenic Olympic Committee, were deeply saddened by the passing of our beloved Janez.
He was a true friend, an inspiring colleague, and most of all an amazing human being. I am sure all the Olympic Family agrees that we lost a fierce and passionate leader of the Olympic movement. Janez was a true advocate of the EOC, supporting equally all countries and channeling his Olympic values into actions to benefit the whole!
May he rest in peace and continue inspiring us from above.
Spyros Capralos, HOC President IOC Member
I am deeply saddened to hear about the passing of Janez. His dedication in work and his understanding of Olympic values were outstanding. Working closely with him was a privilege. We lose a precious colleague and truly good friend. I would like to convey my deepest condolences to his family and friends.
Peter Mennel - EC EOC Member & Secretary General Austrian Olympic Committee
My dear friend EOC President Janez Kocijančič’s passing away has been a grave loss for me and the Olympic Movement. My only consolation is IOC’s awarding him its highest honour, the Olympic Order. I express my deepest sympathies to his family. Rest in peace dear Janez…
Prof. Dr. Ugur ERDENER - TOC President and IOC Vice President
The passing of President Janez Kocijančič is particularly sad for all of us at JTA. Janez was a titan in European and wider Olympic Movement sports administration. He was an immense politician: pragmatic, rational, measured and principled. We had the pleasure of working with him over many years and he always knew how to get the best out of us. He was a true European and ensured that Europe maintained a pre-eminent place in the Olympic family. Rest in peace Janez.
Jon Tibbs. Founder & Chairman, JTA.
We will miss our dear EOC leader!
May he rest in peace!
Dmitri Shepelev, COR
I was deeply saddened to hear about the loss of Janez Kocijančič, a true servant of the values of Olympism in Europe and beyond. I will particularly remember Janez as someone who strongly supported our Small Countries and also as someone who held high the importance of the Olympic Academies in Europe.
Dinos Michaelides, President Cyprus Olympic Committee
I am deeply touched Dr. Janez Kocijančič left us. I did not know him personally long time, but in this short period, he left tremendous mark. His powerful personality, intelligence, open mind, dignity and knowledge were absolutely outstanding. I admire him with the utmost sincerity. He truly believed in Fundamental Sports values, Olympic Movement and the Rule of law. Only once in a time one has opportunity to meet such an exceptional personality from whom one could learn a lot, among all other things, the Fundamental Principles and Values of mankind. It is not possible to describe how deeply sadden I am that we lost him. I am so thankful for his precious time he dedicated to me, even in last heavy times for him. It is priceless. Dear Dr. Janez Kocijančič you will always stay in our hearts.
Alenka Vrečko, PhD Candidate in Sports Law, Ljubljana
What a fine gentleman. He will be greatly missed.
Steven V. Selthoffer, CEO, Athletes Channel
President Kocijančič had a most versatile and impactful career, transforming both politics and sports in Europe after the fall of the iron curtain. He left his mark in history in many ways. His expertise, determination and personal devotion have been central in making the European Olympic Committees the successful organisation it is today. We greatly admire the stamina he demonstrated also during his last months, contributing to the work of the EOC in spite of his condition. We would like to offer our respect to everyone at the EOC and the family and friends of Mr. Janez Kocijančič.
Stefan Bergh - ENGSO President; Kaisa Larjomaa - ENGSO Secretary General; Bengt Sevelius - ENGSO Honorary President; Birgitta Kervinen - ENGSO Honorary President; Carlos Cardoso - ENGSO Honorary President
I would like to offer my sincere condolences on the sad passing away of Janez Kocijančič. I extend my sympathies to his wife Andreja and all his family. Janez was my great friend and advisor. I will never forget his great sense of humour. I will miss him very much. May he rest in peace.
Patrick Hickey - Former EOC President
J’ai été profondément attristé d’apprendre la perte de notre ami Janez Kocijančič, homme de conviction attaché à promouvoir les valeurs du sport et les valeurs de l’Olympisme. Nous vous serions reconnaissants de bien vouloir être nos interprètes auprès de vos collègues du Comité Olympique Européen et auprès des proches de Mr. Janez Kocijancic pour leur dire que nous partageons leur douleur dans ces pénibles circonstances.
Jaume Marti Mandico NOC ANORRA
We are saddened by the death of the great friend of our country, big fighter, experienced and hardworking professional who was always cheerful and smiling, even when times were not the best.
His departure is a huge loss for the Olympic family, especially for us who had that privilege to call him our close friend.
Janez made our lives better, our fights easier and he was our advisor, teacher and leader.
He will be greatly missed. May he rest in peace.
Dusan Simonovic, Montenegrin Olympic Committee President
The Union Européenne de Cyclisme is deeply saddened to learn of the death of the EOC President, Mr Janez Kocijančič.
We had the great pleasure and honour of working with Mr Kocijancic for the first and second editions of the European Games in Baku and Minsk. We very much appreciated his professionalism and wisdom and especially his great ability to understand the differences between European countries.
On behalf of the UEC Management Board, we would like to convey our deepest condolences to the EOC, his family and friends. May he rest in peace.
Rocco Cattaneo - UEC President Enrico Della Casa - UEC Secretary General
Mr Kocijancic was a great professional and an amazing and kind-hearted person with a superb sense of humor at the same time. He would make anyone feel comfortable in his presence. He will be missed a lot by so many people and by the European sport community in particular.
Rest In Peace, dear Mr President.
Olga Salei, Head of EOC and NOC Relations, Minsk 2019
On behalf of the Spanish Olympic Committee and on my own behalf, I would like to express my sincere condolences on the passing away of Janez. I had the great privilege of meeting him and considering him, more than a friend, as a BROTHER. His words, advices and the great Olympic moments that I lived with him will always remain in my memory. Rest in peace.
Alejandro Blanco - EC EOC Member . President Spanish Olympic Committee
Very sorry to hear of President Janez Kocijančič’s passing. I wish to extend my sympathies to his family and friends.
Susanna Rahkamo - Chair, EOC Culture and Legacy Commission, Vice President NOC Finland
It is with great sadness that we have learned the news of passing away of JANEZ KOCIJANCIC , the first President of NOC Slovenia.
Beside his many achievements in business, politics and sports management for his country and as for the entire Olympic Movement, he had a genuine love for the people around him for whom he managed to be a truly good friend with an insatiable great humor and endless good spirit and, at the same time , a caring mentor, doing it all with the playful soul of a child.
We shall miss him greatly, as he really left a void very hard to fill.
COVALIU MIHAI, PRESIDENT OF NOC ROMANIA
The Austrian Olympic Committee were deeply saddened by the passing of our EOC president Janez. He was like a father in all his activities and always a great supporter of the Olympic Movement. Janez worked for the idea of a better world through sport. I would like to send my sincere condolences to his family. Rest In Peace, we will keep you in our mind.
Karl Stoss, President Austrian Olympic Committee
Janez has been an outstanding leader of the Olympic Movement which had a deep respect and passion for the sport. It is indeed a great loss the passing away of our great friend Janez for Kosovo Olympic Committee and for the whole Olympic Movement.
We thank God for the given opportunity to live during his time, to meet Janez and to work with him!
We will long remember Kocijancic, who was known as a great friend of our sport, a great supporter in the process of joining the NOC Kosovo in the IOC and EOC.
Besim Hasani – Kosovo Olympic Committee President Shasivar Haxhijaj – Kosovo Olympic Committee General Secretary
Thank you very much for your example and your friendship. Always in our hearts! Rest in peace dear friend.
Victoria Cabezas. Secretary General Spanish Olympic Committee.
Dear Andreja and all his family please accept my sincere condolences for the loss of your husband,and father .Even if we all knew to his wicked disease we also knew that he fought it with absolute great dignity.He was a loving husband what I could see at many times when Andreja shared our meetings or invited at his home during a EOC EC meeting.He loved live and loved people and Im lucky and was honored to share years along his presence.He was a wise man and I often asked him to his views as well to sports and often to political issues.He had a strong experience,great intelligence spoke so many languages and had a great cultural back ground.He did so much to our Sports Movement with the same endurance as he did before in politics and in his businesses.He was,no I say he is a modell for all uf us.I will remind him all my life along,his philosophy of live and I will do all I can to fight for Justice in Sports related foremost to Doping and all he were close to him know what I mean.Dear Janez,dear freind you had an amazing sense of humour and a gifted storyteller and that’s what Im really missing.
Marc Theisen,EOC Legal Commission,chair and Honorary President NOC Luxemburg
Sincere condolences to all the family from all the members of the Malta Sports Journalists Association.
Sandro Micallef President Malta Sports Journalists Association
On this sad day, I would like to thak you, Janez for the time that I was fortunate to spend with you during the many yaers, I served next to you on the EOC Board.I will miss you Janez.
May you rest in peace.
EFRAIM(ZIGGY)ZINGER-Former EC-EOC member
Janez was not only a great leader, but man with a vision. A man who led Slovenian and European sport always to better future. I was very lucky to know you Janez and became a friend. Thank you. I am not saying good bye I am saying bon voyage in the way to eternity. RIP dear Janez
Jozef Liba Secretary General NOC Slovakia
This is a great loss for all involved in the Olympic Movement. Dr Kocijancic, Janez to us all, was always available to impart his wisdom and advice with a smile. Sincere condolences to all his family from all our Executive. May he rest in peace
Julian Pace Bonello - President Maltese Olympic Committee
Janez Kocijančič will forever remain in our hearts, and his memory will live on, both with professional athletes and all sports enthusiasts. Having been wholeheartedly devoted to the ideals of Olympism, Janez Kocijančič dedicated his life to propagating sports and Olympic values in Slovenia, Europe and around the globe.
The entire SAMBO community, as well as everyone who has known and esteemed this bright and genuine man, will keep an abiding memory of Janez Kocijančič. We wish to convey our deepest sympathy and share in your loss.
Vasily Shestakov, President of the International Sambo Federation
On behalf of everyone at the British Olympic Association, we would like to express our sincere condolences on the passing away of Janez. He was a great supporter of the Olympic Movement and will be deeply missed by all.
Rt Hon Sir Hugh Robertson KCMG DL, President of the British Olympic Association
At the Olympic Committee of Portugal we received with great sadness the loss of our President and Friend Janez Kocijančič.
Janez was a kind man, someone that was always ready to listen our proposals, personifying the good values of Olympic movement.
We will always remember him a man seeking the union of all EOC Family.
We are also grateful that, during his mandate, NOC Portugal was given the opportunity to preside, for the first time in our history, an EOC Commission.
As President of EYOF Commission I am grateful for the vote of confidence that he gave us, and specially to me during this last 2 years.
We will keep the light of this flame in homage to our Friend Janez.
On behalf of NOC Portugal we would like to express our sincere condolences to his Family.
José Manuel Araújo, NOC Portugal Secretary General & President of EYOF Commission
Having passed away, Janez leaves a distinctive trail and a legacy of good deeds and wise decisions in the world of sports and Olympic Family. And a deep imprint of sympathy in our hearts.
Aldons Vrublevskis - President of the Latvian Olympic Committee
We were deeply saddened to learn of Janez’s passing. He was a great leader, a good friend, and a wise counsellor. The strength, wisdom, and stoicism, which he demonstrated during his illness shall be an example to us all in future.
Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends. May he rest in peace.
Sarah Keane, President, Sarah O'Shea, Honorary General Secretary, Olympic Federation of Ireland
We are deeply saddened by the passing oMr. Janez Kocijančič. He was a great believer in Olympic values. We are sure that his work and ideas will lead the way for the future generations. Our most sincere condolences.
Roger Talermo Honorary President Timo Ritakallio President Mikko Salonen CEO, Secretary General
Having been a collaborator of Janez some 15-20 years as memeber and vice-president of the Olympic Committee of Slovenia and chef de Slovenian mission at three Olympics (Atlanta, Sydney and Athens), I know very well what a loss means his departure to the Olympic movemen. A person like him, intelligent, cosmopolitan, polyglot, gentle with a sense of humour, and open to all little problems, will stay in the memory of all good-thinking sporst- and human-friendly people, in Slovenia, in Europe and worldwide.
Nikdar te ne bomo pozabili, Janez!
Marko Ilešič, Judge of the Court of Justice of the European Union, Luxemburg, former president of the Football Association of Yugoslavia and Slovenia, former Vice-President of the Olympic Committee of Sloveia
We never lose the people we respect and love, even to death. They continue to participate in every act, thought and decision we make. RIP Janez.
Jüri Tamm EOC EU Commission, Chair
On behalf of the Estonian Olympic Committee my deep and sincere condolences for the loss to the family. The Olympic movement in Europe has lost one of its pillars.
Urmas Sõõrumaa, Estonian Olympic Committee President
We here at Ski Association of Japan and Tokyo2020 Intnational Relations and NOC services were deeply saddened to hear of the unexpected loss of Mr. Janez Kocijančič. We extend our deepest sympathies and condolences to you as you struggle through this period of difficult and grief.
Janez was not only our important snow friend, but also such an asset to our all of sport, and we mourn this huge loss along with you. The time we spend with Janez and Andreja back in November 2018 during XXIII ANOC General Assembly Tokyo was incredibly special and always remembered.
Along with our Snow and Sports friends around the world, we continue to strive making all our sports more attractive and enhanced.
Aki Murasato Vice-president FIS Exec Director for Int Relations ＆ NOC/NPC services for Tokyo 2020
The Liechtenstein Olympic Committee were deeply saddened by the passing of the EOC president Mr. Janez Kocijančič. We very much appreciates his decades of engagement for the Olympic movement and his leadership within the European Olympic Committee. On behalf of the NOC Liechtenstein we wish to express to the family of Mr. Janez Kocijančič our most sincere condolences and our deepest sympathy. May he rest in peace.
Isabel Fehr, President, Beat Wachter, General Secretary, Liechtenstein Olympic Committee
One year ago the European sports family has celebrated the most excited and bright sports event of 2019-
the 2nd European Games in Minsk. It was the true Celebration of European Solidarity, Respect and Friendship. Without any doubt, the big success of the Games belongs to Janez Kocijancic’s great contribution. From the very beginning, he was the driving force, wise leader and smart captain who leads the ship of the Games preparations through the waves of difficulties.
Belarus will always remember him as a true friend of our country, a cheerful and bright man!
My heart is broken. I’ve lost a dear friend, a delicate mentor and an experienced teacher.
His death is an irreparable loss for all of us.
George Katulin - MEGOC CEO
On behalf of the Maltese Olympic Committee and personally, I would like to express our deepest sadness for the demise of our dear friend Janez Kocijančič. Undoubtedly, Janez was one of the most gentle and intelligent people I have ever met. With his ever glowing smile he would readily and easily capture his audience, and his words were always encouraging, yet determined. His vision and his love for sports and everything that he believed in have been witnessed by many and on many occasions. Rest in Peace dear Janez.
Joseph Cassar Maltese Olympic Committee
Rip my dear friend Janez
Hasan Arat
I am immensely moved to hear about passing away of Janez Kocijančič – a great person whose life was dedicated to sport for many years and who will last in our memory as beloved Friend.
He was involved in the integration of European sport, he cared for young athletes and promoted sporting talents.
Janez was a great friend of Poland and he testified it many times by knowing the achievements of Polish sportsmen, Poland`s history, culture and literature. He visited our country many times, the last visit took place in October on the occasion of the 100th Anniversary of the Polish Olympic Committee. He gave a hearty speech to the Polish Olympic Family at the Grand Theatre-National Opera in Warsaw – we did not expect the last. . .
I am much grateful for our joint work in the EOC Executive Committee and for involving of Polish Olympic medalists in the EOC activity, for Janez`s kindness and cordiality to Polish nation and to the Polish Olympic Committee, for his extraordinary friendship.
I remain in great grief and sorrow.
Dear Janez, you will be always be in my memory. . .
Rest in peace.
Andrzej Kraśnicki, President of the Polish Olympic Committee
I would like to express my sincerest condolences to the Kocijančič family ,Janez was a great friend ,true ambassador to the Olympic world ,I am honored to have him as my President for several years in the EOC Executive Commitee.
RIP Janez
Hasan Arat
It was with great saddness to hear about the passing of my friend Janez. I would like to offer my deepest condolences to the family of my friend Janez. May he rest in peace.
Liney R. Halldorsdottir Secretary General NOC Iceland
The National Olympic Committee of the Republic of Belarus was deeply saddened to learn about the demise of our dear friend Mr. Janez Kocijančič.
It is an unbearable loss for the whole Olympic Movement and the world of sport. His life was an outstanding example of human dignity, strong will and great dedication to the Olympic ideals and values. He made every possible effort to unite all European Committees in one strong European Olympic family and it would be very difficult to measure the impact and contribution he made on all of us through his passion for sport.
Mr. Janez Kocijančič will remain forever in the hearts of the Belarusian people as a good friend and a man of great soul whose help and support enabled us to host one of the brightest sports forums – the 2nd European Games 2019 in Minsk.
On behalf of the National Olympic Committee of the Republic of Belarus let me extend our sincerest condolences to the family of Mr. Janez Kocijančič and all those many who will miss him.
May his soul rest in peace.
National Olympic Committee of the Republic of Belarus
On behalf of the Netherlands Olympic Committee*Netherlands Sport Federation (NOC*NSF), we would like to express our sincere sympathy and condolences on the passing of Janez.
We will remember Janez as a true friend and an inspirational member of the Olympic Family who was highly committed to promote the interests of the NOCs and sports in general. Always with a smile, always with a good (sports)hart, always searching for the best solutions for all. Janez’s substantial contribution to the Olympic Movement, the Olympic values, and the European Games as well, will never be forgotten.
Our thoughts are with Janez’s family and friends.
Anneke van Zanen-Nieberg, President NOC*NSF Gerard Dielessen, Secretary General NOC*NSF
I would like to express my sincerest condolences to the Kocijančič family. Janez was a great friend of Albanian NOC and European Olympic spirit. His contribution in sport is part of excelency and will remain as a legacy for the future of the Olympic Movement.
Rest in Peace our friend Janez!
Stavri Bello, Secretary General of Albanian NOC
I have been sitting with Janez at the FIS Council for the last two years. He had a creative mind and a solid base of knowledge. When he said something, everyone listened because he always brought sound arguments. But what I found funny is the way to greet me. He told me “amigo proletario” and I thought that it was a salutation coming from the old communist days when he probably knew some Cubans. It is a pity that I cannot ask him for an explanation anymore.
Eduardo Valenzuela, FIS Council Member
“On behalf of the entire Karate family in Europe and around the world, I wish to offer our deepest condolences to Mr Kocijancic’s loved ones. Our thoughts are with them. Janez Kocijancic was a champion of the Olympic movement and a friend of Karate. We will always be grateful for his camaraderie and his assistance during all these years”
Antonio Espinós - WKF President
Janez has inspired all of us with his views and ideas about living together with passion for Olympic Values and fair play among everyone. His positive thinking and acting always created a better atmosphere among people around hin. We have lost a great leader and friend. Rest in peace Janez.
Dr Klaus Steinbach Chair of EOC Medical and Anti-Doping Commission
I was deeply saddened to hear that Janez had passed away.
While his declining health was well known this does not reduce the sense of shock and sadness upon the loss of a friend and of a champion of sport.
Janez’s positive and lasting contributions to sport and in particular to the EOC will be felt for many years ahead.
My condolences and best wishes go to his family at this difficult time.
Andrew Craig. The Craig Company LLC
I was deeply saddened to learn about the death of Janez Kocijančič – an excellent sports activist, an irreplaceable member of the Olympic Community and a true friend of Kraków. His charisma and determination based on Olympic values were an inspiration to sportsmen and women also in Poland – may he rest in peace!
Jacek Majchrowski Mayor of Kraków, Poland
Dr Kocijančič will always have a special place in the hearts of Bosnians and Herzegovinians, and for Olympic Committee of Bosnia and Herzegovina he will forever be remembered as a great President, true friend and above all an exceptional man. At one point, he was the biggest supporter that the Olympic spirit could return to Sarajevo after WOG Sarajevo 1984. That his trust in us was justified, dr Kocijančič confirmed himself when he said that EYOF 2019 Sarajevo and East Sarajevo was a great encouragement for the whole Olympic movement.
Olympic Committee of BiH, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and the whole world is indebted to dr Kocijančič, and we will strive to continue his mission the best way we can.
Počivaj u miru dragi Prijatelju!
prof.dr. Izet Rađo – President NOC BiH
Marijan Kvesić – Vice president NOC BiH
mr.sci. Said Fazlagić – Secretary General NOC BiH
NOC of Bosnia and Herzegovina
The Olympic Family of Ukraine was deeply saddened by the death of the EOC President Mr. Janez Kocijanсic, who was a true friend of Ukraine and a great supporter of our sport. It was a pleasure and honour for the NOC of Ukraine to welcome him in our country, charging us with his energy, positivity, ambitious plans and ideas.
Mr. Kocijancic was a great leader, who made a valuable contribution to the sport and Olympic Movement in Europe and worldwide.
Today we are bowing our heads in sorrow and our thoughts are with Mr. Janez Kocijanсiс’s dear ones at this time of sadness.
NOC of Ukraine
A bright personality, an outstanding son of Slovenia who devoted his life to Olympic values, a highly professional sports manager and our colleague passed away.
It is indeed a great loss for all of us, Mr. Janez Kocijancic’s colleagues and friends. We will always remember him, a wonderful person and passionate leader, who has done a lot for strengthening and unity of the European and world Olympic Movement, building his activities on the principles of mutual understanding, respect and friendship.
I am proud to call him a friend and will miss greatly his wisdom, sincerity and humanity.
My thoughts go out to Janez ’s family and friends in this difficult time.
May your soul rest in peace, my dear friend.
Sergey Bubka, IOC EB Member, Olympic Champion
It was deeply saddening for the whole Olympic and Sport Movement in Slovakia to learn about the passing of Mr. Janez Kocijačič. We had the pleasure and privilege to consider him not only a sport leader but also a friend. We will cherish the memory of the times we were able to share with him and will always remember him as the great person he was. Dear Janez, rest in peace, you will be missed dearly!
Slovak Olympic and Sports Committee
President Janez Kocijancic (or as he preferred to be addressed “Janez”) was an outstanding man in various fields. He was a person of great integrity, a great sportsman, a politician, a prominent lawyer, but most of all a real friend. One can put in so many praiseworthy aspects of his character it would be an endless list. Great leader you will always be remembered and may you rest in peace. Deepest condolences to his family and loved ones.
Lino Farrugia Sacco – Chairman Audit Committee
Janez,
it was a great honor to know you. You have left a huge void in our hearts, but you are also leaving us with rather sizable shoes to fill in on all levels of sport and in the Olympic Movement.
Although, there was an apparent generation gap between us, I have always truly felt that we shared a close fiendship, and equal human and Olympic values.
Your contribution in every field that you were involved in, will stay recognized forever but, most importantly, your achievements are there for your family to be proud of!
My heart and thoughts are with them.
Rest in peace, my dear friend.
Djordje Visacki - Secretary General NOC Serbia
I am considering myself lucky to have a chance to met Janez Kocijancic first time many years ago when he was the President of the NOC of Slovenia. Recently we have had occasional meetings in his role of the EOC President, at different events etc. Always kind and approachable, prudent listener with extensive knowledge of sport, history, and society. No matter the subject, no matter the outcome of the meeting, with typical smiles and gestures, always correct and approachable, you have felt… respected. And well-deserved respect was given!
With sadness in my heart I am sending deepest condolences to his family and friends, as well to the NOC of Slovenia and EOC.
Robert Perc, Ju-jitsu European (JJEU) Union - President, Ju-jitsu Federation of Slovenia - President
When a friend leaves you, you miss him.
Thank you very much Janez for your family spirit and your willingness to serve Sport.
The pains are silent ! …
Sincere thoughts.
Jean Michel BRUN/SG/CNOSF
We would like to send our sincere condolences on the sad passing away of Janez Kocijančič, to his family and his friends. Janez was our great friend for more than 40 years. We will never forget our close relations and friendship during the time of Former Yugoslavia and later as NOC Presidents. Janez’s extraordinary work and results at the top level sports management on the Olympic and Sport National and international organizations will be felt for many years. May he rest in peace.
Dr Vasil Tupurkovski-President / Dr Sasho Popovski-Secretary General - Olympic Committee of North Macedonia
RIP, Mr. President
Anton Lyakhov, Head of Accreditation Organising Committee of the II European Games 2019
I was deeply saddened to hear about the loss of President Janez Kocijančič.
My sincere condolences to his family.
RIP Janez.
Saive Jean-Michel Former EOC-AC Chair, Vice-Chair NOC Belgium
We were all very saddened at the Czech NOC to hear of the death of President Janez Kocijančič. He has always been a highly respected personality in the Olympic Movement. His legacy in promoting the Olympic values that bind us all together and strengthening our movement’s educational role will be felt strongly by the up and coming generation. We must strive to build on his legacy – that will surely be the best way to remember and honour Janez Kocijančič.
Czech Olympic Committee
Janez was a dear friend of Sarajevo. He contributed to the return of the Olympic spirit in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
We will be grateful forever.
Jelena Dojcinovic, General secretary
World Lacrosse was so very saddened to hear of the loss of EOC President Janez Kocijančič. We extend our deepest sympathies to all those who were touched by Janez. We are thinking of the EOC family and our thoughts and prayers are with you. May memories of him and his many contributions to sport and the world be celebrated by all.
World Lacrosse
Le Comité Olympique Monégasque (COM) a été très peiné d’apprendre la disparition de M. KOCIJANCIC.
Un hommage appuyé a été rendu à notre ami à l’occasion de l’Assemblée Générale du COM, tenue le 8 juillet dernier, en présence de notre Président, S.A.S. le Prince Albert II.
Les membres ont salué la mémoire de M. KOCIJANCIC et sa contribution au mouvement olympique européen en respectant une minute de silence.
S.E. Mme Yvette LAMBIN-BERTI, CNO Monaco - Secrétaire Général
Janez was a dear friend of all sports in Europe. He was a highly intelligent person and he will be sadly missed by all who knew him. He played a great roll as the President of the SLO NOC for many years and indeed was great roll model for all people in Slovenia. Personally as the European Canoe Association President I was honoured to call him a friend and there will be a huge vacuum in European Sport with his demise. My heart goes out to his family and friends at this difficult emotional time. There will however always be fond humorous times together with Janez that we will always treasure and remember.In the name of friends from the European Canoe Association, I am sending our deepest condolences to his family and friends. May he rest in peace.
Albert Woods OBE, ECA President
I have been fortunate to be able to call Janez a very close friend for many years and so this news is deeply saddening for me, as it is for the many friends that he had throughout the Olympic Movement. We worked together for a long time and as President of EOC and Vice-President of ANOC, it was clear how dedicated he was to promoting the interests of NOCs and their athletes. He was always ready to speak up for what he believed in and his passion and commitment will be sorely missed by all of us. Our thoughts are with his friends and family at this very difficult time.
Gunilla Lindberg - ANOC Secretary General
Janez was a deeply respected member of the NOC family and the Olympic Movement as a whole. His passing is a great loss to all those who knew him and all those who had the privilege of working with him over his long and decorated career. His immense contribution to the Olympic Movement will be his lasting legacy and ensure that he lives long in the memory of all of us.
Robin Mitchell - Acting ANOC President
All of us at the Hellenic Olympic Committee, were deeply saddened by the passing of our beloved Janez.
He was a true friend, an inspiring colleague, and most of all an amazing human being. I am sure all the Olympic Family agrees that we lost a fierce and passionate leader of the Olympic movement. Janez was a true advocate of the EOC, supporting equally all countries and channeling his Olympic values into actions to benefit the whole!
May he rest in peace and continue inspiring us from above.
Spyros Capralos, HOC President IOC Member
I am deeply saddened to hear about the passing of Janez. His dedication in work and his understanding of Olympic values were outstanding. Working closely with him was a privilege. We lose a precious colleague and truly good friend. I would like to convey my deepest condolences to his family and friends.
Peter Mennel - EC EOC Member & Secretary General Austrian Olympic Committee
My dear friend EOC President Janez Kocijančič’s passing away has been a grave loss for me and the Olympic Movement. My only consolation is IOC’s awarding him its highest honour, the Olympic Order. I express my deepest sympathies to his family. Rest in peace dear Janez…
Prof. Dr. Ugur ERDENER - TOC President and IOC Vice President
The passing of President Janez Kocijančič is particularly sad for all of us at JTA. Janez was a titan in European and wider Olympic Movement sports administration. He was an immense politician: pragmatic, rational, measured and principled. We had the pleasure of working with him over many years and he always knew how to get the best out of us. He was a true European and ensured that Europe maintained a pre-eminent place in the Olympic family. Rest in peace Janez.
Jon Tibbs. Founder & Chairman, JTA.
We will miss our dear EOC leader!
May he rest in peace!
Dmitri Shepelev, COR
I was deeply saddened to hear about the loss of Janez Kocijančič, a true servant of the values of Olympism in Europe and beyond. I will particularly remember Janez as someone who strongly supported our Small Countries and also as someone who held high the importance of the Olympic Academies in Europe.
Dinos Michaelides, President Cyprus Olympic Committee
I am deeply touched Dr. Janez Kocijančič left us. I did not know him personally long time, but in this short period, he left tremendous mark. His powerful personality, intelligence, open mind, dignity and knowledge were absolutely outstanding. I admire him with the utmost sincerity. He truly believed in Fundamental Sports values, Olympic Movement and the Rule of law. Only once in a time one has opportunity to meet such an exceptional personality from whom one could learn a lot, among all other things, the Fundamental Principles and Values of mankind. It is not possible to describe how deeply sadden I am that we lost him. I am so thankful for his precious time he dedicated to me, even in last heavy times for him. It is priceless. Dear Dr. Janez Kocijančič you will always stay in our hearts.
Alenka Vrečko, PhD Candidate in Sports Law, Ljubljana
What a fine gentleman. He will be greatly missed.
Steven V. Selthoffer, CEO, Athletes Channel
President Kocijančič had a most versatile and impactful career, transforming both politics and sports in Europe after the fall of the iron curtain. He left his mark in history in many ways. His expertise, determination and personal devotion have been central in making the European Olympic Committees the successful organisation it is today. We greatly admire the stamina he demonstrated also during his last months, contributing to the work of the EOC in spite of his condition. We would like to offer our respect to everyone at the EOC and the family and friends of Mr. Janez Kocijančič.
Stefan Bergh - ENGSO President; Kaisa Larjomaa - ENGSO Secretary General; Bengt Sevelius - ENGSO Honorary President; Birgitta Kervinen - ENGSO Honorary President; Carlos Cardoso - ENGSO Honorary President
I would like to offer my sincere condolences on the sad passing away of Janez Kocijančič. I extend my sympathies to his wife Andreja and all his family. Janez was my great friend and advisor. I will never forget his great sense of humour. I will miss him very much. May he rest in peace.
Patrick Hickey - Former EOC President
J’ai été profondément attristé d’apprendre la perte de notre ami Janez Kocijančič, homme de conviction attaché à promouvoir les valeurs du sport et les valeurs de l’Olympisme. Nous vous serions reconnaissants de bien vouloir être nos interprètes auprès de vos collègues du Comité Olympique Européen et auprès des proches de Mr. Janez Kocijancic pour leur dire que nous partageons leur douleur dans ces pénibles circonstances.
Jaume Marti Mandico NOC ANORRA
We are saddened by the death of the great friend of our country, big fighter, experienced and hardworking professional who was always cheerful and smiling, even when times were not the best.
His departure is a huge loss for the Olympic family, especially for us who had that privilege to call him our close friend.
Janez made our lives better, our fights easier and he was our advisor, teacher and leader.
He will be greatly missed. May he rest in peace.
Dusan Simonovic, Montenegrin Olympic Committee President
The Union Européenne de Cyclisme is deeply saddened to learn of the death of the EOC President, Mr Janez Kocijančič.
We had the great pleasure and honour of working with Mr Kocijancic for the first and second editions of the European Games in Baku and Minsk. We very much appreciated his professionalism and wisdom and especially his great ability to understand the differences between European countries.
On behalf of the UEC Management Board, we would like to convey our deepest condolences to the EOC, his family and friends. May he rest in peace.
Rocco Cattaneo - UEC President Enrico Della Casa - UEC Secretary General
Mr Kocijancic was a great professional and an amazing and kind-hearted person with a superb sense of humor at the same time. He would make anyone feel comfortable in his presence. He will be missed a lot by so many people and by the European sport community in particular.
Rest In Peace, dear Mr President.
Olga Salei, Head of EOC and NOC Relations, Minsk 2019
On behalf of the Spanish Olympic Committee and on my own behalf, I would like to express my sincere condolences on the passing away of Janez. I had the great privilege of meeting him and considering him, more than a friend, as a BROTHER. His words, advices and the great Olympic moments that I lived with him will always remain in my memory. Rest in peace.
Alejandro Blanco - EC EOC Member . President Spanish Olympic Committee
Very sorry to hear of President Janez Kocijančič’s passing. I wish to extend my sympathies to his family and friends.
Susanna Rahkamo - Chair, EOC Culture and Legacy Commission, Vice President NOC Finland
It is with great sadness that we have learned the news of passing away of JANEZ KOCIJANCIC , the first President of NOC Slovenia.
Beside his many achievements in business, politics and sports management for his country and as for the entire Olympic Movement, he had a genuine love for the people around him for whom he managed to be a truly good friend with an insatiable great humor and endless good spirit and, at the same time , a caring mentor, doing it all with the playful soul of a child.
We shall miss him greatly, as he really left a void very hard to fill.
COVALIU MIHAI, PRESIDENT OF NOC ROMANIA
The Austrian Olympic Committee were deeply saddened by the passing of our EOC president Janez. He was like a father in all his activities and always a great supporter of the Olympic Movement. Janez worked for the idea of a better world through sport. I would like to send my sincere condolences to his family. Rest In Peace, we will keep you in our mind.
Karl Stoss, President Austrian Olympic Committee
Janez has been an outstanding leader of the Olympic Movement which had a deep respect and passion for the sport. It is indeed a great loss the passing away of our great friend Janez for Kosovo Olympic Committee and for the whole Olympic Movement.
We thank God for the given opportunity to live during his time, to meet Janez and to work with him!
We will long remember Kocijancic, who was known as a great friend of our sport, a great supporter in the process of joining the NOC Kosovo in the IOC and EOC.
Besim Hasani – Kosovo Olympic Committee President Shasivar Haxhijaj – Kosovo Olympic Committee General Secretary
Thank you very much for your example and your friendship. Always in our hearts! Rest in peace dear friend.
Victoria Cabezas. Secretary General Spanish Olympic Committee.
Dear Andreja and all his family please accept my sincere condolences for the loss of your husband,and father .Even if we all knew to his wicked disease we also knew that he fought it with absolute great dignity.He was a loving husband what I could see at many times when Andreja shared our meetings or invited at his home during a EOC EC meeting.He loved live and loved people and Im lucky and was honored to share years along his presence.He was a wise man and I often asked him to his views as well to sports and often to political issues.He had a strong experience,great intelligence spoke so many languages and had a great cultural back ground.He did so much to our Sports Movement with the same endurance as he did before in politics and in his businesses.He was,no I say he is a modell for all uf us.I will remind him all my life along,his philosophy of live and I will do all I can to fight for Justice in Sports related foremost to Doping and all he were close to him know what I mean.Dear Janez,dear freind you had an amazing sense of humour and a gifted storyteller and that’s what Im really missing.
Marc Theisen,EOC Legal Commission,chair and Honorary President NOC Luxemburg
Sincere condolences to all the family from all the members of the Malta Sports Journalists Association.
Sandro Micallef President Malta Sports Journalists Association
On this sad day, I would like to thak you, Janez for the time that I was fortunate to spend with you during the many yaers, I served next to you on the EOC Board.I will miss you Janez.
May you rest in peace.
EFRAIM(ZIGGY)ZINGER-Former EC-EOC member
Janez was not only a great leader, but man with a vision. A man who led Slovenian and European sport always to better future. I was very lucky to know you Janez and became a friend. Thank you. I am not saying good bye I am saying bon voyage in the way to eternity. RIP dear Janez
Jozef Liba Secretary General NOC Slovakia
This is a great loss for all involved in the Olympic Movement. Dr Kocijancic, Janez to us all, was always available to impart his wisdom and advice with a smile. Sincere condolences to all his family from all our Executive. May he rest in peace
Julian Pace Bonello - President Maltese Olympic Committee
Janez Kocijančič will forever remain in our hearts, and his memory will live on, both with professional athletes and all sports enthusiasts. Having been wholeheartedly devoted to the ideals of Olympism, Janez Kocijančič dedicated his life to propagating sports and Olympic values in Slovenia, Europe and around the globe.
The entire SAMBO community, as well as everyone who has known and esteemed this bright and genuine man, will keep an abiding memory of Janez Kocijančič. We wish to convey our deepest sympathy and share in your loss.
Vasily Shestakov, President of the International Sambo Federation
On behalf of everyone at the British Olympic Association, we would like to express our sincere condolences on the passing away of Janez. He was a great supporter of the Olympic Movement and will be deeply missed by all.
Rt Hon Sir Hugh Robertson KCMG DL, President of the British Olympic Association
At the Olympic Committee of Portugal we received with great sadness the loss of our President and Friend Janez Kocijančič.
Janez was a kind man, someone that was always ready to listen our proposals, personifying the good values of Olympic movement.
We will always remember him a man seeking the union of all EOC Family.
We are also grateful that, during his mandate, NOC Portugal was given the opportunity to preside, for the first time in our history, an EOC Commission.
As President of EYOF Commission I am grateful for the vote of confidence that he gave us, and specially to me during this last 2 years.
We will keep the light of this flame in homage to our Friend Janez.
On behalf of NOC Portugal we would like to express our sincere condolences to his Family.
José Manuel Araújo, NOC Portugal Secretary General & President of EYOF Commission
Having passed away, Janez leaves a distinctive trail and a legacy of good deeds and wise decisions in the world of sports and Olympic Family. And a deep imprint of sympathy in our hearts.
Aldons Vrublevskis - President of the Latvian Olympic Committee
We were deeply saddened to learn of Janez’s passing. He was a great leader, a good friend, and a wise counsellor. The strength, wisdom, and stoicism, which he demonstrated during his illness shall be an example to us all in future.
Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends. May he rest in peace.
Sarah Keane, President, Sarah O'Shea, Honorary General Secretary, Olympic Federation of Ireland
We are deeply saddened by the passing oMr. Janez Kocijančič. He was a great believer in Olympic values. We are sure that his work and ideas will lead the way for the future generations. Our most sincere condolences.
Roger Talermo Honorary President Timo Ritakallio President Mikko Salonen CEO, Secretary General
Having been a collaborator of Janez some 15-20 years as memeber and vice-president of the Olympic Committee of Slovenia and chef de Slovenian mission at three Olympics (Atlanta, Sydney and Athens), I know very well what a loss means his departure to the Olympic movemen. A person like him, intelligent, cosmopolitan, polyglot, gentle with a sense of humour, and open to all little problems, will stay in the memory of all good-thinking sporst- and human-friendly people, in Slovenia, in Europe and worldwide.
Nikdar te ne bomo pozabili, Janez!
Marko Ilešič, Judge of the Court of Justice of the European Union, Luxemburg, former president of the Football Association of Yugoslavia and Slovenia, former Vice-President of the Olympic Committee of Sloveia
We never lose the people we respect and love, even to death. They continue to participate in every act, thought and decision we make. RIP Janez.
Jüri Tamm EOC EU Commission, Chair
On behalf of the Estonian Olympic Committee my deep and sincere condolences for the loss to the family. The Olympic movement in Europe has lost one of its pillars.
Urmas Sõõrumaa, Estonian Olympic Committee President
We here at Ski Association of Japan and Tokyo2020 Intnational Relations and NOC services were deeply saddened to hear of the unexpected loss of Mr. Janez Kocijančič. We extend our deepest sympathies and condolences to you as you struggle through this period of difficult and grief.
Janez was not only our important snow friend, but also such an asset to our all of sport, and we mourn this huge loss along with you. The time we spend with Janez and Andreja back in November 2018 during XXIII ANOC General Assembly Tokyo was incredibly special and always remembered.
Along with our Snow and Sports friends around the world, we continue to strive making all our sports more attractive and enhanced.
Aki Murasato Vice-president FIS Exec Director for Int Relations ＆ NOC/NPC services for Tokyo 2020
The Liechtenstein Olympic Committee were deeply saddened by the passing of the EOC president Mr. Janez Kocijančič. We very much appreciates his decades of engagement for the Olympic movement and his leadership within the European Olympic Committee. On behalf of the NOC Liechtenstein we wish to express to the family of Mr. Janez Kocijančič our most sincere condolences and our deepest sympathy. May he rest in peace.
Isabel Fehr, President, Beat Wachter, General Secretary, Liechtenstein Olympic Committee
One year ago the European sports family has celebrated the most excited and bright sports event of 2019-
the 2nd European Games in Minsk. It was the true Celebration of European Solidarity, Respect and Friendship. Without any doubt, the big success of the Games belongs to Janez Kocijancic’s great contribution. From the very beginning, he was the driving force, wise leader and smart captain who leads the ship of the Games preparations through the waves of difficulties.
Belarus will always remember him as a true friend of our country, a cheerful and bright man!
My heart is broken. I’ve lost a dear friend, a delicate mentor and an experienced teacher.
His death is an irreparable loss for all of us.
George Katulin - MEGOC CEO
On behalf of the Maltese Olympic Committee and personally, I would like to express our deepest sadness for the demise of our dear friend Janez Kocijančič. Undoubtedly, Janez was one of the most gentle and intelligent people I have ever met. With his ever glowing smile he would readily and easily capture his audience, and his words were always encouraging, yet determined. His vision and his love for sports and everything that he believed in have been witnessed by many and on many occasions. Rest in Peace dear Janez.
Joseph Cassar Maltese Olympic Committee
Rip my dear friend Janez
Hasan Arat
I am immensely moved to hear about passing away of Janez Kocijančič – a great person whose life was dedicated to sport for many years and who will last in our memory as beloved Friend.
He was involved in the integration of European sport, he cared for young athletes and promoted sporting talents.
Janez was a great friend of Poland and he testified it many times by knowing the achievements of Polish sportsmen, Poland`s history, culture and literature. He visited our country many times, the last visit took place in October on the occasion of the 100th Anniversary of the Polish Olympic Committee. He gave a hearty speech to the Polish Olympic Family at the Grand Theatre-National Opera in Warsaw – we did not expect the last. . .
I am much grateful for our joint work in the EOC Executive Committee and for involving of Polish Olympic medalists in the EOC activity, for Janez`s kindness and cordiality to Polish nation and to the Polish Olympic Committee, for his extraordinary friendship.
I remain in great grief and sorrow.
Dear Janez, you will be always be in my memory. . .
Rest in peace.
Andrzej Kraśnicki, President of the Polish Olympic Committee
I would like to express my sincerest condolences to the Kocijančič family ,Janez was a great friend ,true ambassador to the Olympic world ,I am honored to have him as my President for several years in the EOC Executive Commitee.
RIP Janez
Hasan Arat
It was with great saddness to hear about the passing of my friend Janez. I would like to offer my deepest condolences to the family of my friend Janez. May he rest in peace.
Liney R. Halldorsdottir Secretary General NOC Iceland
The National Olympic Committee of the Republic of Belarus was deeply saddened to learn about the demise of our dear friend Mr. Janez Kocijančič.
It is an unbearable loss for the whole Olympic Movement and the world of sport. His life was an outstanding example of human dignity, strong will and great dedication to the Olympic ideals and values. He made every possible effort to unite all European Committees in one strong European Olympic family and it would be very difficult to measure the impact and contribution he made on all of us through his passion for sport.
Mr. Janez Kocijančič will remain forever in the hearts of the Belarusian people as a good friend and a man of great soul whose help and support enabled us to host one of the brightest sports forums – the 2nd European Games 2019 in Minsk.
On behalf of the National Olympic Committee of the Republic of Belarus let me extend our sincerest condolences to the family of Mr. Janez Kocijančič and all those many who will miss him.
May his soul rest in peace.
National Olympic Committee of the Republic of Belarus
On behalf of the Netherlands Olympic Committee*Netherlands Sport Federation (NOC*NSF), we would like to express our sincere sympathy and condolences on the passing of Janez.
We will remember Janez as a true friend and an inspirational member of the Olympic Family who was highly committed to promote the interests of the NOCs and sports in general. Always with a smile, always with a good (sports)hart, always searching for the best solutions for all. Janez’s substantial contribution to the Olympic Movement, the Olympic values, and the European Games as well, will never be forgotten.
Our thoughts are with Janez’s family and friends.
Anneke van Zanen-Nieberg, President NOC*NSF Gerard Dielessen, Secretary General NOC*NSF
I would like to express my sincerest condolences to the Kocijančič family. Janez was a great friend of Albanian NOC and European Olympic spirit. His contribution in sport is part of excelency and will remain as a legacy for the future of the Olympic Movement.
Rest in Peace our friend Janez!
Stavri Bello, Secretary General of Albanian NOC
I have been sitting with Janez at the FIS Council for the last two years. He had a creative mind and a solid base of knowledge. When he said something, everyone listened because he always brought sound arguments. But what I found funny is the way to greet me. He told me “amigo proletario” and I thought that it was a salutation coming from the old communist days when he probably knew some Cubans. It is a pity that I cannot ask him for an explanation anymore.
Eduardo Valenzuela, FIS Council Member
“On behalf of the entire Karate family in Europe and around the world, I wish to offer our deepest condolences to Mr Kocijancic’s loved ones. Our thoughts are with them. Janez Kocijancic was a champion of the Olympic movement and a friend of Karate. We will always be grateful for his camaraderie and his assistance during all these years”
Antonio Espinós - WKF President
Janez has inspired all of us with his views and ideas about living together with passion for Olympic Values and fair play among everyone. His positive thinking and acting always created a better atmosphere among people around hin. We have lost a great leader and friend. Rest in peace Janez.
Dr Klaus Steinbach Chair of EOC Medical and Anti-Doping Commission
I was deeply saddened to hear that Janez had passed away.
While his declining health was well known this does not reduce the sense of shock and sadness upon the loss of a friend and of a champion of sport.
Janez’s positive and lasting contributions to sport and in particular to the EOC will be felt for many years ahead.
My condolences and best wishes go to his family at this difficult time.
Andrew Craig. The Craig Company LLC
I was deeply saddened to learn about the death of Janez Kocijančič – an excellent sports activist, an irreplaceable member of the Olympic Community and a true friend of Kraków. His charisma and determination based on Olympic values were an inspiration to sportsmen and women also in Poland – may he rest in peace!
Jacek Majchrowski Mayor of Kraków, Poland
Dr Kocijančič will always have a special place in the hearts of Bosnians and Herzegovinians, and for Olympic Committee of Bosnia and Herzegovina he will forever be remembered as a great President, true friend and above all an exceptional man. At one point, he was the biggest supporter that the Olympic spirit could return to Sarajevo after WOG Sarajevo 1984. That his trust in us was justified, dr Kocijančič confirmed himself when he said that EYOF 2019 Sarajevo and East Sarajevo was a great encouragement for the whole Olympic movement.
Olympic Committee of BiH, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and the whole world is indebted to dr Kocijančič, and we will strive to continue his mission the best way we can.
Počivaj u miru dragi Prijatelju!
prof.dr. Izet Rađo – President NOC BiH
Marijan Kvesić – Vice president NOC BiH
mr.sci. Said Fazlagić – Secretary General NOC BiH
NOC of Bosnia and Herzegovina
The Olympic Family of Ukraine was deeply saddened by the death of the EOC President Mr. Janez Kocijanсic, who was a true friend of Ukraine and a great supporter of our sport. It was a pleasure and honour for the NOC of Ukraine to welcome him in our country, charging us with his energy, positivity, ambitious plans and ideas.
Mr. Kocijancic was a great leader, who made a valuable contribution to the sport and Olympic Movement in Europe and worldwide.
Today we are bowing our heads in sorrow and our thoughts are with Mr. Janez Kocijanсiс’s dear ones at this time of sadness.
NOC of Ukraine
A bright personality, an outstanding son of Slovenia who devoted his life to Olympic values, a highly professional sports manager and our colleague passed away.
It is indeed a great loss for all of us, Mr. Janez Kocijancic’s colleagues and friends. We will always remember him, a wonderful person and passionate leader, who has done a lot for strengthening and unity of the European and world Olympic Movement, building his activities on the principles of mutual understanding, respect and friendship.
I am proud to call him a friend and will miss greatly his wisdom, sincerity and humanity.
My thoughts go out to Janez ’s family and friends in this difficult time.
May your soul rest in peace, my dear friend.
Sergey Bubka, IOC EB Member, Olympic Champion
It was deeply saddening for the whole Olympic and Sport Movement in Slovakia to learn about the passing of Mr. Janez Kocijačič. We had the pleasure and privilege to consider him not only a sport leader but also a friend. We will cherish the memory of the times we were able to share with him and will always remember him as the great person he was. Dear Janez, rest in peace, you will be missed dearly!
Slovak Olympic and Sports Committee
President Janez Kocijancic (or as he preferred to be addressed “Janez”) was an outstanding man in various fields. He was a person of great integrity, a great sportsman, a politician, a prominent lawyer, but most of all a real friend. One can put in so many praiseworthy aspects of his character it would be an endless list. Great leader you will always be remembered and may you rest in peace. Deepest condolences to his family and loved ones.
Lino Farrugia Sacco – Chairman Audit Committee
Janez,
it was a great honor to know you. You have left a huge void in our hearts, but you are also leaving us with rather sizable shoes to fill in on all levels of sport and in the Olympic Movement.
Although, there was an apparent generation gap between us, I have always truly felt that we shared a close fiendship, and equal human and Olympic values.
Your contribution in every field that you were involved in, will stay recognized forever but, most importantly, your achievements are there for your family to be proud of!
My heart and thoughts are with them.
Rest in peace, my dear friend.
Djordje Visacki - Secretary General NOC Serbia
I am considering myself lucky to have a chance to met Janez Kocijancic first time many years ago when he was the President of the NOC of Slovenia. Recently we have had occasional meetings in his role of the EOC President, at different events etc. Always kind and approachable, prudent listener with extensive knowledge of sport, history, and society. No matter the subject, no matter the outcome of the meeting, with typical smiles and gestures, always correct and approachable, you have felt… respected. And well-deserved respect was given!
With sadness in my heart I am sending deepest condolences to his family and friends, as well to the NOC of Slovenia and EOC.
Robert Perc, Ju-jitsu European (JJEU) Union - President, Ju-jitsu Federation of Slovenia - President
When a friend leaves you, you miss him.
Thank you very much Janez for your family spirit and your willingness to serve Sport.
The pains are silent ! …
Sincere thoughts.
Jean Michel BRUN/SG/CNOSF
We would like to send our sincere condolences on the sad passing away of Janez Kocijančič, to his family and his friends. Janez was our great friend for more than 40 years. We will never forget our close relations and friendship during the time of Former Yugoslavia and later as NOC Presidents. Janez’s extraordinary work and results at the top level sports management on the Olympic and Sport National and international organizations will be felt for many years. May he rest in peace.
Dr Vasil Tupurkovski-President / Dr Sasho Popovski-Secretary General - Olympic Committee of North Macedonia
RIP, Mr. President
Anton Lyakhov, Head of Accreditation Organising Committee of the II European Games 2019
I was deeply saddened to hear about the loss of President Janez Kocijančič.
My sincere condolences to his family.
RIP Janez.
Saive Jean-Michel Former EOC-AC Chair, Vice-Chair NOC Belgium
We were all very saddened at the Czech NOC to hear of the death of President Janez Kocijančič. He has always been a highly respected personality in the Olympic Movement. His legacy in promoting the Olympic values that bind us all together and strengthening our movement’s educational role will be felt strongly by the up and coming generation. We must strive to build on his legacy – that will surely be the best way to remember and honour Janez Kocijančič.
Czech Olympic Committee
Janez was a dear friend of Sarajevo. He contributed to the return of the Olympic spirit in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
We will be grateful forever.
Jelena Dojcinovic, General secretary
World Lacrosse was so very saddened to hear of the loss of EOC President Janez Kocijančič. We extend our deepest sympathies to all those who were touched by Janez. We are thinking of the EOC family and our thoughts and prayers are with you. May memories of him and his many contributions to sport and the world be celebrated by all.
World Lacrosse
Le Comité Olympique Monégasque (COM) a été très peiné d’apprendre la disparition de M. KOCIJANCIC.
Un hommage appuyé a été rendu à notre ami à l’occasion de l’Assemblée Générale du COM, tenue le 8 juillet dernier, en présence de notre Président, S.A.S. le Prince Albert II.
Les membres ont salué la mémoire de M. KOCIJANCIC et sa contribution au mouvement olympique européen en respectant une minute de silence.
S.E. Mme Yvette LAMBIN-BERTI, CNO Monaco - Secrétaire Général