The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has appointed Pau Gasol, the Spanish basketball legend, as the chair of the IOC Athletes’ Commission. Alongside Gasol, Maja Wloszczowska from Poland remains the first vice-chair, and Humphrey Kayange from Kenya has been chosen as the second vice-chair. Additionally, a new third vice-chair position has been introduced, to be filled by Oluseyi Smith from Canada, a former athletics and bobsleigh athlete.
The elections occurred during an IOC Athletes’ Commission meeting in Milan. Gasol, known for his participation in five Olympic Games and winning medals in Beijing 2008, London 2012, and Rio 2016, will lead the commission along with the vice-chairs until the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games, as per Xinhua reports. Gasol, who was elected to the Athletes’ Commission during the Tokyo 2020 Games, also serves on the IOC Coordination Commission for Los Angeles 2028 and the IOC Ethics Commission.
Expressing his gratitude, Gasol stated, “This is a big moment to be able to take on the responsibility of leading our commission.” He emphasized the importance of unity and collaboration, highlighting the opportunity to make significant progress until LA28. Gasol, a prominent figure in the NBA, emphasized the significance of teamwork in achieving collective goals.
The IOC highlighted the pivotal role of the Athletes’ Commission in representing the global athlete voice within and beyond the IOC. Comprising up to 23 members, including elected and appointed representatives, the commission ensures diversity across gender, regions, and sports to uphold athlete representation and advocacy.
