ANOC PRESIDENT: I ENDED UP CHOOSING SPORT

Lausanne, December 1, 2015 – Does Sheikh Ahmad al-Fahad al-Sabah live in a plane? This is the question FrancsJeux, – the French magazine that closely follows the world of Olympism – asked in consideration of the President of ANOC’s multiple trips. The magazine also reports passages from a recent interview Sheikh Al-Sabah granted the Swiss newspaper “24 Hours.”
For those who are not very fluent in Molière’s language, here are some extracts.
“I am a man who loves sport and who comes from a family of athletes. I have been an athlete for forty years now, and a world sports official for thirty years. I was educated at the Kuwait Military Academy before becoming a colonel in my country’s army. Since when I have long occupied important positions both in sport and in politics. But I ended up choosing sport. And sport policy is very different from the policy of politics. “
” The IOC remains the body that governing sports, but International Federations and National Olympic Committees are key partners. For too long, they were content just to exist. When I arrived at the head of the organization (ANOC), it was my intention to bring concrete changes. We wanted to organize an event for our athletes, especially for those who do not have the chance to take part in the Olympics. Not for lack of results, but simply because their sport is not represented at the Olympics. We chose the “Beach Games” because they require little infrastructure, the budget needed is limited and everyone loves the sea, the sun and the beach. The first edition is set to take place in 2017, and will be co-organized by the city of San Diego. “
“My first trip to Switzerland was in my youth, for summer courses in Crans-Montana. I also spent many holidays on the shores of Lake Geneva. My first official trip to Lausanne dates back to the early 90s, when I succeeded my father as a member of the IOC. For me, it is essential to be close to international federations, the IOC and many other sports organizations. Without the help of Lausanne, we certainly would have difficulties in controlling local laws and adapt our statutes. In addition, Switzerland has been very firm in its fight against money laundering and in strengthening the banking system, which reassures me as a president. “
“Why do I not want to succeed Sepp Blatter? Because I think I have a greater role to play than that of President! I can bring more to FIFA as coordinator and member of the Reforms Commission, headed by your experienced countryman, Mr François Carrard. I do not want to scatter myself and waste my energy on campaigning. I prefer to devote all my time to finding solutions for the future. I can assure continuous communication with members from all continents. I have the freedom to draw scenarios and get my suggestions heard if I do not have any hidden interests. If we disregard the current scandal, Michel Platini would have logically taken the place of Blatter. This transition would have been quite normal. Everyone has known that for years. Both are my friends and, on a human level, this is very tricky. “