Samaranch aims to stay
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Olympic Games
Juan-Antonio Samaranch went closer yesterday to ensuring he remains president of the International Olympic Committee into the next century.
The executive board recommended a rule change at the IOC Session (equivalent to the AGM) which could keep IOC members in a job for life and ensure Samaranch a fourth term.
Members will vote from today on the following proposals: 1) no change to the rule forcing members to retire at 75; 2) no age limit; 3) make an exception to the present age limit of 75 for the president; 4) raise the age limit to 78. A two-thirds majority is needed for any change.
Francois Carrard, the IOC's director general, said they could not be concerned what the outside world would think of a move enabling Samaranch, who is 75 and has been president since 1980, to stay on after 1997, when he is due to stand down.
Dick Pound, an Executive Board member for Canada, considered a front- runner in any presidential election, said on Monday: "I think we would be laughing stocks if we removed the age limit."
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments