Olympic athletes elect Korean bobsled pilot and Estonian biathlete to represent them at IOC - AP News
AP News
February 19, 2026
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Olympic athletes have elected a Korean bobsled pilot and an Estonian biathlete to represent them at the International Olympic Committee (IOC). This decision marks a significant step toward amplifying athlete voices in shaping global sports policies. The selection reflects a growing trend of empowering athletes to play a more active role in governance, ensuring their experiences and concerns are central to decision-making processes.
The Korean bobsled pilot, whose name has not been disclosed, brings expertise from one of the fastest-growing winter sports nations. With a deep understanding of high-speed teamwork and the challenges faced by elite athletes, this individual is well-suited to advocate for fair competition standards and safety protocols. Meanwhile, the Estonian biathlete, also unnamed in the report, adds a unique perspective through their experience in endurance sports, emphasizing the importance of mental resilience and holistic athlete support.
This move comes amid broader efforts to modernize the IOC’s approach to athlete welfare and representation. By including athletes from diverse backgrounds—both in terms of sport disciplines and geographic regions—the IOC aims to foster inclusivity and ensure that policies reflect the needs of a diverse global athletic community. This shift underscores the importance of giving athletes a stronger say in matters ranging from anti-discrimination measures to training facilities and competition rules.
The election highlights the increasing recognition of athletes as key stakeholders, not just participants in sports events. It aligns with global trends toward more athlete-centric governance models, which are essential for maintaining trust and integrity within international sports bodies. By involving athletes directly, the IOC can better address issues such as doping, fair treatment of whistleblowers, and equitable access to resources.
Ultimately, this development matters because it signals a cultural shift in how athletes are valued and heard at the highest levels of sports governance. Empowering athletes to represent their peers ensures that their perspectives shape policies that affect their careers and lives. This not only strengthens the integrity of international sports but also sets a precedent for other organizations to follow, fostering a more inclusive and equitable future for athletes worldwide.
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Originally published on AP News on 2/19/2026