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E-mail Xinhua, August 12, 2024
As the Paris 2024 Olympic Games draws to a close, International Olympic Committee President Thomas Bach expressed his overwhelming satisfaction with the event, lauding it as a "sensational" and historic celebration of sport.
Thomas Bach, president of the International Olympic Committee, speaks during the 142nd IOC session at the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris, France, Aug 10, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]
Reflecting on the Games, Bach emphasized how the event lived up to and even surpassed the IOC's ambitious Olympic Agenda, which envisions Games centered on athletes, inclusivity, sustainability and innovation.
"These have been great Games. I can say sensational games," Bach stated, noting that the Paris Games embodied the IOC's vision by offering a platform that was "more inclusive, more sustainable, more urban, younger, and with full gender parity."
Bach praised the integration of French culture, innovation and creativity, which he said inspired people across France and the world. He highlighted how these elements "brought the Olympic Agenda to life," surpassing his already high expectations.
The Paris Games also marked the debut of several new sports, including breakdancing and kiteboarding, which Bach said have added significantly to the attraction of the Olympics, particularly among younger audiences.
"These new sports are appealing not only to the young generation but to everyone," he said, expressing his personal excitement for these additions, despite humorously acknowledging that he is not part of the younger demographic.
The success of the Champions Park in Paris, where athletes and fans gathered to celebrate victories, was another highlight for Bach.
He recalled how, during his own time as an athlete, returning home to his small town was akin to having a Champions Park. Bach added hopes that future Olympic organizers, particularly those in Los Angeles 2028 and Brisbane 2032, would consider adopting this initiative.
A key takeaway from the Paris Games was the unity displayed among athletes from the over 200 national and regional Olympic Committees, including the IOC Refugee Team.
Bach noted that athletes from countries and regions in conflict showed remarkable sportsmanship and camaraderie in the Olympic Village, sharing meals and celebrating together without incident.
"This is Olympic spirit at its best," Bach said, commending the athletes for resisting external pressures to display aggression and instead choosing to live in peace and mutual respect.
The Games also witnessed historic victories, such as Botswana's Letsile Tebogo becoming the first African to win the men's 200m race, and Julien Alfred taking Saint Lucia's first ever Olympic medal of any color by winning the women's 100m event.
Bach emphasized the importance of such achievements for the IOC, which is committed to global solidarity and supporting athletes from less privileged nations through Olympic Solidarity programs.
"These victories reaffirm that we are on the right track," said Bach, adding that the close competitions and diverse medal winners showcased the effectiveness of these programs in leveling the playing field.
As Paris prepares to hand over the Olympic torch to Los Angeles for the 2028 Games, Bach expressed confidence in the success of the next edition.
He emphasized that each Olympic Games must be authentic and reflective of its host city's culture. "If LA tries to copy the Eiffel Tower, it would be a disaster," he quipped, urging the organizers to present the Games in line with California's unique cultural identity while embracing global diversity.
In a significant announcement, Bach confirmed that he will not seek an additional term as IOC President, despite pressure from some members to continue. He cited his belief in good governance and the need for new leadership to navigate the challenges ahead, particularly in the digital arena. "New times require new leaders," he stated.
