Jordan’s Prince Feisal Al Hussein is running to become the first IOC president from the Middle East, emphasizing sports’ healing power amidst geopolitical tensions. He advocates for inclusion in sports, flexibility in Olympic scheduling, and respects national sovereignty regarding women’s sports. His candidacy highlights the important potential for sports to unite and bring about peace.
Prince Feisal Al Hussein of Jordan is campaigning to become the first International Olympic Committee (IOC) leader from the Middle East. Over the past six months, he has actively engaged in the election process against six other candidates, including Sebastian Coe, the President of World Athletics. His royal background is highlighted as an advantage in garnering support from the 111 IOC members, including prominent figures such as Princess Anne and Prince Albert of Monaco.
His candidacy comes with significant geopolitical implications, particularly in light of ongoing conflicts. Prince Feisal emphasized the unifying power of sports, stating that while sports cannot resolve wars, they serve as “a fantastic tool for healing.” He expressed hopes that the Middle East could host the Summer Games in 2036 and suggested that adjustments to the scheduling might be needed due to extreme heat during typical summer months.
In discussing hosting possibilities, he recalled Qatar and Saudi Arabia, which have established infrastructure through hosting the men’s World Cup. He advocated for flexibility in the Olympic calendar, allowing countries worldwide to potentially host the Games, thereby contributing to the Olympic legacy.
Unlike his brother, Prince Ali, who leads Jordan’s football federation, Prince Feisal supports inclusion in sports rather than exclusion. He stated, “I’m not for exclusion. I believe in inclusion,” and emphasized adherence to the Olympic Charter concerning participation.
Before the most recent conflicts in Gaza, Prince Feisal spoke against forced migration. He asserted that the rights and wishes of the Palestinian people should be prioritized. He expressed his willingness to work with U.S. President Donald Trump to foster peace, highlighting that true peace extends beyond ceasefires and requires hope, justice, and fairness.
Currently serving as the vice chair of the IOC’s gender, diversity, and inclusion commission, he addressed the issue of women’s participation in sports under the Taliban’s regime in Afghanistan. While encouraging women’s inclusion in sports, he acknowledged respect for national sovereignty in governing decisions. Prince Feisal also commented on the IOC’s stance on gender eligibility in sports, advocating for a scientific approach rather than overarching IOC bans, emphasizing that each sport’s governing body is better positioned to make such determinations.
Prince Feisal Al Hussein’s candidacy for the IOC presidency marks a significant moment for the Middle East in global sports governance. His emphasis on inclusion, healing through sports, and flexibility in the Olympic schedule reflects his vision of fostering peace and unity. As he approaches the election amidst geopolitical tensions, his principled stance on issues such as forced migration and gender participation underscores his commitment to the Olympic ideals, positioning him as a forward-thinking leader in the evolving landscape of international sports.
Original Source: news.sky.com
