International Olympic Committee (IOC) President Kirsty Coventry has appointed five new members of the IOC Athletes’ Commission (AC), ensuring that the AC reaches full strength in time for the 2026 Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics.
The five Olympians are Soraya Agei Hajiaga (IRI, badminton), Hussein Alireza (KSA, rowing), Chek Salah Cisse (CIV, taekwondo), Olufunke Oshonaike (NGR, table tennis), and Mariana Pahon (COL, cycling). The appointment was made in consultation with IOC AC Chair Emma Terho.
According to Tehran Times, Aghaei will compete in Tokyo 2020, becoming the first female badminton player to represent Iran at the Olympics. She coaches at the national level and is a member of the Iranian NOC Athletes Committee.
IOC AC Chair Emma Terho congratulated the new members and said: “I am delighted to welcome Soraya, Hussein, Cech, Olufunke and Mariana to the Athletes’ Commission.” “Their diverse backgrounds, accomplishments, and experiences enrich our discussions and help us continue to advocate for athletes around the world.”
With these appointments, the IOC AC now consists of 23 members from all continents (including members of the Refugee Olympic Team), 13 women and 10 men, representing 15 summer sports and five winter sports.
MNA