Prince Feisal champions member input in IOC presidential bid

LONDON - The promise of a more democratic International Olympic Committee with greater input from members is key to Prince Feisal Al Hussein of Jordan's bid for the top Olympic job, the IOC presidential candidate has told Reuters.

One of seven candidates running for the prestigious post being vacated by German Thomas Bach after 12 years in charge, the 61-year-old also says a more flexible approach to hosting the Games is another vital element that needs to be addressed as the movement enters a new phase.

Prince Feisal, a member of the Executive Board, is up against World Athletics chief Sebastian Coe, Zimbabwe's Sports Minister Kirsty Coventry, Juan Antonio Samaranch Jr., international cycling head David Lappartient, Japanese gymnastics leader Morinari Watanabe, and Swedish Olympic newcomer Johan Eliasch in the March 2025 election.

Prince Feisal's campaign focuses on three pillars: imagination, integrity, and inclusion.

"I think that's a good way forward and I'm hoping that... most of the members will look at the manifesto and say, 'okay, that's somebody I can see as the President of the IOC and I like what he's thinking. I like his style'," he told Reuters in an interview in London.

"I believe that I've always had credibility because I speak very frankly. I don't try and say things that I think people want to hear. I say what I really believe because I think you must be frank and honest if you want to build a relationship."

He underlines his credentials of candour, saying the full potential of the IOC membership is not being utilised. Critics argue that under Bach, decision-making has been centralised to the Executive Board. 

Prince Feisal says he will ensure the entire membership's voices are heard if he is elected.

The IOC