IOC President Thomas Bach Declines Third Term Extension

Thomas Bach, President of the International Olympic Committee, announced he will not seek a term extension after his second term ends in 2025. Despite some members urging him to stay, Bach emphasized that leadership change is vital after 12 years. His decision aligns with the Olympic charter's term limits.

Thomas Bach, President of the International Olympic Committee (IOC), announced on Saturday that he will not seek to extend his term beyond its current end in 2025, despite calls from members asking him to stay on. Bach, who has led the IOC since 2013, made the announcement during the committee's session in Paris, citing the Olympic Charter's 12-year limit for the presidency—a rule he himself helped establish.

Bach emphasized that the organization would be best served with new leadership. "New times are calling for new leaders," he said emotionally. The next IOC president will be elected in March 2025, and will officially take over in June of the same year, ensuring a smooth transition.

During his tenure, Bach implemented significant reforms, making the Olympic Games more financially viable and attractive to candidate cities. Under his leadership, the IOC secured $7.3 billion for the 2025-28 period and $6.2 billion for 2029-32. Bach, an Olympic fencing champion in 1976, has overseen a virtually unanimous approval of committee decisions during his time in charge.

(With inputs from agencies.)