IOC President Thomas Bach Reflects on 12 Years of Crises as Term Ends

Bach prepares to step down in June, leaving behind a reformed Olympic movement but facing criticism over autocratic ties and athlete rights.

Thomas Bach will conclude his 12-year tenure as IOC President on June 23, following the election of his successor this Thursday in Greece.
His presidency navigated numerous challenges, including Russian state doping, the COVID-19 pandemic, and the war in Ukraine.
Bach's tenure is credited with reforms to modernize the Olympics, including sustainability initiatives and efforts to engage younger audiences.
Critics have raised concerns about his perceived leniency toward autocratic regimes and insufficient advocacy for athlete representation and rights.
Bach plans to step away from sports leadership entirely, focusing on personal pursuits such as a pilgrimage on the Camino de Santiago.