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One prominent question loomed over the exclusive Costa Navarino resort in Greece on Wednesday evening: Can Sebastian Coe once again achieve a stunning comeback? Historically, he has proven his resilience by bouncing back from setbacks in both the Moscow and Los Angeles Olympics, ultimately clinching gold in the 1500m after a defeat in the 800m. Years later, he defied expectations to successfully secure the 2012 Games for London amid competition from Paris and Madrid in Singapore.
As the clock ticked down to Thursday’s pivotal vote for the next president of the International Olympic Committee, Coe was actively engaging with supporters and negotiating alliances, hoping to secure a fourth Olympic triumph.
His backers are optimistic about his chances, recalling his previous experience where London won the bid after an intense four rounds of voting in 2005, narrowly defeating Paris by just four votes. However, amidst the speculation and gossip swirling in Greece, some observers draw parallels to another bid – England’s pursuit for the 2018 World Cup. On the eve of that vote, a British journalist confidently dismissed the Russian bid, claiming they had “thrown in the towel” due to Putin’s absence, only to be swiftly proven wrong the next day.
Currently, many analysts see Juan Antonio Samaranch as the frontrunner. Nevertheless, Kirsty Coventry’s campaign to become the IOC’s first female president is also attracting attention, alongside Coe’s candidacy. The secrecy of the voting process introduces further uncertainty.
Outwardly, the atmosphere appears congenial, especially given that the vote is taking place at a luxurious five-star hotel frequented by Hollywood stars filming an adaptation of Homer’s Odyssey. The resort features numerous amenities, including 131 infinity pools and a golf course designed by Bernhard Langer.
Behind the scenes, however, a troubling smear campaign has targeted two candidates with unfounded allegations, stirring unrest among the electorate. There is also a growing sentiment that the outgoing president, Thomas Bach, is favoring Coventry, which raises concerns about the political neutrality valued by the Olympic movement. This has led to frequent comparisons to a papal conclave.
Gauging voter sentiments is challenging, as many remain tight-lipped. When approached for comment, Princess Anne curtly replied, “No,” to inquiries about her opinions. Hugh Robertson, another British IOC member, smiled at the interaction, while Prince Albert of Monaco also maintained silence.
The uncertainty looms large as the vote approaches. As Samaranch sagely noted, the confidentiality of votes makes it difficult to differentiate between a smile and an actual commitment to support a candidate. He stressed that all candidates must tread carefully in interpreting potential support.
The intricacies of the IOC present additional challenges. With only 109 members, Coe must forge a coalition of diverse stakeholders, including former athletes, politicians, royals, and even celebrities like Michelle Yeoh, while facing significant resistance from Bach.
Coe’s past decisions, particularly the banning of Russian athletes from the Rio Games, seem to have alienated some members, as did his choice to award substantial prize money to gold medalists in Paris without prior consultation with other sports.
Despite these challenges, Coe boasts an impressive resume as a two-time Olympic champion, the organizer of the London 2012 Games, and a political figure accustomed to navigating complex relationships with leaders around the world. Amid geopolitical tensions, his experience could prove invaluable.
Samaranch, however, brings his own advantages as the son of a previous IOC president, Juan Samaranch, who held the position for 21 years. He has extensive connections, particularly in China, and is well-respected for his charm and demeanor.
Coventry, a two-time Olympic gold medalist and current Zimbabwean sports minister, has made strides in her campaign, despite criticism regarding her government’s human rights record. Her backing by Bach presents an opportunity, even if skepticism remains about her campaign’s vision.
As for the voting process, expectations suggest that Coventry hopes to secure early victories through Bach’s support. However, many believe a more extended voting process will unfold.
The initial rounds are likely to feature candidates such as Morinari Watanabe, president of the International Federation of Gymnastics, followed by Johan Eliasch, a prominent figure in winter sports.
As the vote progresses, it will become increasingly convoluted. Coe’s team holds onto hope that they can advance to the final two candidates and seize the opportunity, but the outcome remains uncertain.
How the seven candidates compare
Sebastian Coe, Great Britain
As a two-time Olympic champion and former head of the 2012 London Games, Coe is regarded as a leading candidate with a comprehensive resume. At 68, he presents himself as a reformer, advocating for member involvement in decision-making while emphasizing the importance of women’s sports and support for smaller sports. He faces significant opposition, particularly from Bach.
Kirsty Coventry, Zimbabwe
At 41, Coventry is striving to become the first female and African president of the IOC. With Bach’s patronage, she benefits from greater visibility despite the criticism of her uninspired platform focused on continuity. Her growing presence in the campaign may garner support from fellow athletes within the IOC.
Johan Eliasch, Great Britain
Eliasch, a billionaire and president of the International Ski and Snowboard Federation, is unlikely to win. However, he has emphasized the need for sports to address climate change, proposing to rotate Winter Games locations and reinforcing the idea of female-only competitions for women’s sports.
Prince Faisal al Hussein, Jordan
Prince Faisal, a member of Jordan’s royal family, has campaigned on sports as a unifying force for peace. His background includes military service, and while he aims to promote safeguarding in sports, his chances of success are limited as the voting progresses.
David Lappartient, France
As president of the International Cycling Union, Lappartient gained attention for a deal with Saudi Arabia for an Esport Olympics. However, with Bach’s support moving toward Coventry, his chances to advance in the election appear slim.
Juan Antonio Samaranch, Spain
Samaranch, at 65, is well-connected due to familial ties and his background in banking. Advocating for women athletes and increased member involvement, he faces skepticism from critics questioning his motives.
Morinari Watanabe, Japan
The head of gymnastics, Watanabe, is not expected to win but has proposed innovative ideas, such as hosting the Olympics across five continents simultaneously. His vision includes expanding the Olympic framework while meeting sustainability criteria.
Source
www.theguardian.com