The 144th IOC Session began with a stunning Opening Ceremony in Ancient Olympia, Greece, on Tuesday (18 March), where EOC President Spyros Capralos emphasised the significance of holding the event at the Olympic Games’ spiritual home.
While the Session will take place in Costa Navarino from 19-21 March, IOC Members were transported to Ancient Olympia for the ceremony.
The Ancient Olympia Stadium, the site of the Ancient Olympic Games and host for the men’s and women’s shot put during the Olympic Games Athens 2004, proved a fitting venue ahead of a landmark three days for the Olympic Movement, with President Thomas Bach’s successor to be election on Thursday (20 March)
EOC President Capralos, who served as the Hellenic Olympic Committee President for 16 years and has been proposed by the IOC Executive Board for a four-year extension to his IOC Membership until 2029 during the Session, was invited to address the Opening Ceremony as the IOC Member in Greece.
President Capralos said: “Welcome to Olympia, the magic place, the very cradle of the Olympic Games. It was here 2800 years ago that the Greeks first gathered to honour Zeus and to ensure the games would stand as a defining symbol of excellence, unity and peace.
“Whether as Greeks, IOC Members or devoted supporters of the Olympic Movement, we have a shared responsibility to honour the athletes of the past while building new opportunities for the champions of today and tomorrow; to work steadfastly towards uniting as well as empowering humanity over the essential values of respect, friendship and solidarity.
“The milestones of Olympism are endless and throughout the years, there have been enlightened leaders driven by their deep love of sport and respect for the Olympic values. They managed to protect and enhance Olympic ideals during times of great challenges. I would like to sincerely thank President Thomas Bach for his unique contribution in keeping the Olympic Movement upright and high, especially during a period marked by global conflict and crisis. Mr President, we are grateful to you as we are here stronger, proud, and above all together.”
The IOC Session will begin at 9:00 AM EET tomorrow in Costa Navarino, with the election for the new IOC President scheduled for the afternoon of 20 March.
