It’s not every day that a royal seeks an election rather than simply inheriting a title. But that’s exactly what Jordan’s Prince Feisal Al Hussein is doing as he campaigns to become the president of the International Olympic Committee (IOC). For the past six months, he has been working hard to gain the support of the 111 IOC members, including notable figures like Princess Anne and Prince Albert of Monaco.
In his pitch, Prince Feisal emphasizes the advantages of his royal background, stating, "I’ve been born into a family that’s dedicated to service." His candidacy is significant as he aims to be the first IOC leader from the Middle East, a region often in the spotlight for its geopolitical issues, especially in the current climate of conflict.
The election will take place in Greece on Thursday, where Prince Feisal faces six opponents, including Sebastian Coe, the president of World Athletics. His campaign is not just about sports; it also touches on broader themes of peace and unity. He believes in the power of sports to heal and connect people, saying, "It’s not going to solve wars, but it is a fantastic tool for healing."
As he looks ahead to potential future Olympic Games, Prince Feisal notes the need for flexibility in scheduling, especially if the Games are to be held in the Middle East. The extreme summer heat in the region could require shifting the events to cooler months. Countries like Qatar and Saudi Arabia are already considered for hosting due to their recent investments in sports infrastructure.
Prince Feisal’s approach to his candidacy is inclusive. Unlike some voices in the region, he does not support banning Israel from sports. He argues that exclusion goes against the Olympic spirit and that participation should be based on adherence to the Olympic charter.
Amid the ongoing conflicts in the region, he expresses a firm belief in respecting the wishes of the Palestinian people, stating, "It should be what the Palestinian people want, not what the rest of us want." He is also open to working with various leaders, including former President Donald Trump, as the 2028 Games in Los Angeles approach.
In addition to his campaign, Prince Feisal serves as the vice chair of the IOC’s gender, diversity, and inclusion commission. He advocates for women’s participation in sports, particularly in countries like Afghanistan, where such opportunities are limited. He encourages change but acknowledges that it must come from within each country.
As the election draws near, Prince Feisal’s vision for the IOC reflects a blend of tradition and modernity, aiming to unite nations through the shared love of sports while navigating the complexities of global politics.