In a significant milestone, former Moroccan Olympic champion Nawal El Moutawakil was elected as Vice President of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) on Wednesday. This announcement came on the second day of the 142nd IOC session held in Paris.
New Leadership at the IOC
Nawal El Moutawakil will assume her new role as Vice President of the IOC alongside Argentine Gerardo Werthein. Their terms will officially commence on August 10th, following the conclusion of the 142nd session. This transition will mark the end of the terms for John Coates from Australia and Ser Miang Ng from Singapore.
A Celebrated Athletic Career
Nawal El Moutawakil’s illustrious career as an athlete is nothing short of remarkable. She dominated the track as the Moroccan champion in the 100m, 200m, and 400m hurdles during 1977-1978. Her prowess extended beyond national borders, earning her titles as the Arab champion in the same events, and the African champion in the 400m hurdles in 1983.
El Moutawakil’s international acclaim soared when she became the USA champion in the 400m hurdles in 1984. Her crowning achievement came at the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics, where she won the gold medal in the 400m hurdles, etching her name in history as an Olympic champion. She further added to her accolades with gold medals at the Mediterranean Games in Casablanca (1983) and Damascus (1987), and a bronze medal at the World University Games in Kobe, Japan (1985). She capped off her athletic career with another gold at the World University Games in Zagreb, then part of Yugoslavia, in 1987.
Significant Contributions to the Olympic Movement
Beyond her athletic achievements, Nawal El Moutawakil has been an influential figure within the Olympic movement. A member of the Moroccan National Olympic Committee (NOC), she brings a wealth of experience to the IOC, having previously served as Vice President from 2012 to 2016. Her election to this pivotal role underscores her enduring commitment and contribution to the Olympic ideals.
Key Decisions and Elections at the 142nd IOC Session
The 142nd IOC session was marked by several key elections and decisions. In addition to the election of the new Vice Presidents, the IOC elected two members to its Executive Board and inducted eight new members into the Committee, four of whom are women. These elections highlight the IOC’s ongoing efforts to promote gender equality and diversity within its leadership.
Furthermore, the session saw the re-election of fifteen IOC members who have not yet reached the age limit, the extension of one member’s mandate, and the election of two honorary members. These appointments are part of the IOC’s strategic plan to ensure continuity and bring in fresh perspectives to advance the Olympic movement.
Conclusion
Nawal El Moutawakil’s election as Vice President of the IOC is a testament to her exceptional contributions both as an athlete and as a leader within the Olympic community. Her journey from a champion hurdler to a key figure in the governance of the Olympic movement inspires not only her compatriots but the global sporting community. The 142nd IOC session’s outcomes reflect the organization’s commitment to fostering inclusivity, diversity, and excellence in sports.
