PARIS, France — Johan Eliasch has outlined his vision for the future of the International Olympic Committee (IOC), emphasizing the critical importance of “hope” in a “divisive world” and his ability to significantly boost the IOC’s financial success.
In an interview with AFP, the 62-year-old president of the International Ski Federation (FIS) discussed his candidacy to succeed Thomas Bach as IOC president, describing it as likely his “last hurrah.”
Eliasch, a prominent Anglo-Swedish billionaire businessman and environmental advocate, was the surprise entry among seven candidates vying for one of the most powerful positions in global sport.
He believes his unique perspective and experience can bring the IOC to new heights. “Sport has a magic ability to unite people in peace, working together, doing things together,” he said during a stopover in Paris on his way to the World Skiing Championships in Saalbach, Austria.
For Eliasch, hope is at the core of his campaign. He hopes to inspire the next generation, particularly children, by instilling the belief that hard work can make dreams possible.
“In this disruptive and divisive world, we need hope,” Eliasch added. “Hope that things will get better or hope that we can do things better. Hope is the most precious commodity we have.”
The IOC’s financial growth under Bach’s leadership over the past 12 years has set high expectations, but Eliasch is confident that with the right leadership, the IOC’s revenues and influence can continue to rise.