- Joined
- May 8, 2002
- Posts
- 1,171,813
- Reaction score
- 59
You must be registered for see images attach
Former President of the International Olympic Committee (IOC), Thomas Bach (C), stands in the finish area of the men's singles Luge competition during the 2026 Winter Olympic Games Milan-Cortina. Robert Michael/dpa
Former Olympics chief Thomas Bach expects the Winter Games to send an important signal amid widespread global political unrest.
"We all long for something that brings us together. We have a moment in the history of our times that is full of aggression, hatred and war," the 72-year-old said during a visit to the German House in Cortina d'Ampezzo late on Sunday.
People would like to see "how athletes fight for victory, then hug and stand together," added Bach, now honorary president of the International Olympic Committee (IOC).
"That is something that delights everyone - and even more in times like these."
German Bach was IOC president for 12 years and was succeeded by Kirsty Coventry in June.
On Sunday, he first attended the women's downhill, where US star Lindsey Vonn suffered a suspected broken leg.
Bach later followed the action on the sliding track, where German luge ace Max Langenhan raced to gold.
Bach said it had been "particularly emotional" for him that three-times gold medallist Felix Loch, beaten this time and ultimately sixth, was the first to congratulate the new Olympic champion and fellow German at the finish.
"That is the Olympics," Bach remarked.
Continue reading...
