Francesco Ricci Bitti has stepped down from the role ©Getty Images

Francesco Ricci Bitti has stepped down as President of SportAccord Convention, handing over the reins to GAISF President Patrick Baumann. Ricci Bitt’s decision to step aside has now combined both jobs again, however, Mr Ricci Bitti will remain on the Executive Board of the SportAccord Convention to represent the Summer Olympic IFs (ASOIF), which he heads as President.

 

Mr Ricci Bitti thanked the board for accepting his proposal, assuring them the support if ASOIF. Mr. Ricci Bitti continued by stating that the announcement of the convention hosted by Bangkok in 2018 and the interest of so many other potential candidates gives us great confidence for future events.

 

Patrick Baumann is not only President of GAISF at the convention, but also the head of the coordination commission for the 2024 Summer Olympics and Paralympics. Mr Baumann stated that he would like to thank Francesco Ricci Bitti for his confidence, his great commitment and that he looked forward to the continued success of GAISF and the SportAccord Convention for the benefit of all member associations.

 

IFMA would like to congratulate Mr Baumann and is looking forward to the continued cooperation with GAISF and SportAccord Convention, as a proud member and with the IFMA General Secretary Mr Stephan Fox being Vice President of GAISF.