August 30, (THEWILL) – Jacques Rogge, the former International Olympic Committee (IOC) President, has passed away at the age of 79.
The Belgian died as an Honorary President of the IOC after holding the top job from 2001 to 2013.
As President, Rogge presided over Olympic Games in 2002 at the Salt Lake City, in 2004 at Athens and in 2006 at Turin. He was also in charge at the 2008 Games in Beijing, the 2010 Games in Vancouver 2010, and at London 2012, for a total of six Olympics.
Rogge himself was an athlete in his youth.
He represented Belgium at three Olympics Games in the sailing event.
He also played rugby for Belgium at the international level.
His love for sports and competition blossomed in that time.
He translated that love into his handling of the responsibilities of his position as IOC President and it made Rogge such a successful head of the Committee, earning him the privilege of an honoryary President until his death.
Thomas Bach, Rogge’s successor captured this succinctly when he said: “First and foremost, Jacques loved sport and being with athletes – and he transmitted this passion to everyone who knew him.
“His joy in sport was infectious. He was an accomplished president, helping to modernise and transform the IOC. He will be remembered particularly for championing youth sport and for inaugurating the youth Olympic Games.
“He was also a fierce proponent of clean sport, and fought tirelessly against the evils of doping. The entire Olympic Movement will deeply mourn the loss of a great friend and a passionate fan of sport.”
In his honour and as a mark of respect, the IOC confirmed that the Olympic flag will be flown at half-mast for five days at the Olympic House, the Olympic Museum, and at all IOC properties.
About the Author
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
