The AOC has paid tribute to former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe following his death in the tragic circumstances in Japan yesterday.
AOC President Ian Chesterman says Mr Abe showed leadership during a critical time and will be remembered as a great friend of the Olympic movement.
“We are deeply saddened by the loss of Mr Abe. The Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games were such a triumph, giving hope and inspiration to so many around the world. The Games’ success owes so much to his vision and perseverance.
“We know the enormous sense of loss that Japan feels on the passing of its longest-serving Prime Minister and a man who gave so much to his country, to so many. To the Japanese people, please accept our most heartfelt condolences”, Mr Chesterman said.
IOC Member in Australia and IOC Vice President John Coates worked closely with then Prime Minister Mr Abe in his capacity as Chair of the IOC’s Coordination Commission for the Tokyo Games.
"Shinzo Abe was a dear friend of the Olympic movement. His vision and support for the Tokyo Games was a constant throughout his Prime Ministership and following.
“Without Shinzo Abe’s commitment, the decision to postpone the Games by one year in the face of the global pandemic would simply not have happened.
“All of the athletes of the world who participated in the Tokyo 2020 Games are forever indebted to him", Coates concluded.
