At the World Sailing General Assembly held in Singapore on November 9, Li Quanhai was re-elected as president for a new four-year term. The only Chinese president of an Olympic International Federation, Li’s re-election marks a significant achievement for both him and the sport. He received 55 votes, securing a decisive victory over his competitors, Rodion Luka (UKR) with 2 votes and Philippe Rogge (BEL) with 29 votes. Li’s leadership has been central to the growth and stability of World Sailing in recent years, and his continued role signals the future direction of the sport globally.
Li’s Vision for Sailing’s Future
Li Quanhai expressed his gratitude for the ongoing support from delegates, committing to work with the new World Sailing Board to further the sport’s growth. He emphasized the need for continuous innovation to enhance the professionalism and appeal of sailing, aiming to attract more young participants and foster deeper cultural connections through the sport.
Environmental and Collaborative Focus
Li highlighted the importance of environmental protection in sailing’s future. World Sailing, under his leadership, will prioritize safeguarding the oceans and ensuring the sport’s sustainable growth. Li also underlined the need for deeper collaboration with the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and other member associations to promote balanced global development in sailing.
Tribute to Departing Board Members
In his victory speech, Li thanked the departing members of the World Sailing Board—Philip Baum, Sarah Kenny, Yann Rocherieux, and Marcus Spillane—for their significant contributions to the sport. Their leadership, according to Li, has left sailing in a stronger position than before.
IOC’s Recognition
The re-election was warmly welcomed by outgoing IOC President Thomas Bach, who praised Li’s leadership and contribution to the success of the Paris 2024 Olympics. He expressed confidence that World Sailing’s collaboration with the IOC would continue to flourish in the lead-up to future Olympic events, including the Youth Olympic Games in Dakar (2026) and the LA Olympics (2028).
Summery of the News
| Why in News | Key Points |
|---|---|
| Li Quanhai Re-Elected as World Sailing President | – Li Quanhai re-elected for a second term as President of World Sailing. – Election took place on November 9, 2024, in Singapore. – Li received 55 votes; Rodion Luka (2 votes) and Philippe Rogge (29 votes). – Focus on sustainability, youth participation, and collaboration with the IOC. |
| Static Information | World Sailing – Founded in Paris in 1907. – Governing body for sailing, with 137 national sailing associations. – Holds leadership elections every four years. – Li first assumed the presidency in November 2020. |
| IOC Collaboration | – Strong partnership with the International Olympic Committee (IOC). – Focus on success at the Paris 2024 Olympics and future Olympics (Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games, LA 2028). |
| Departing Board Members | – Philip Baum, Sarah Kenny, Yann Rocherieux, and Marcus Spillane leaving the Board after contributing significantly to the sport’s development. |
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