79-year-old Rogge was President of the IOC from 2001-2013, then becoming Honorary President.

A 16-time Belgian champion sailor, Rogge competed in the Finn Class at the Mexico 1968, Munich 1972 and Montreal 1976 Games. He was also a Belgian rugby champion and represented his country on the national team. Rugby 7s and Golf were included on the Olympic program under his Presidency.

Rogge’s contribution to the Olympic movement throughout the world and in Australia is immense. As Chair of the IOC Coordination Commission for the Sydney Olympic Games, he played a central role in helping deliver the ‘best Games ever’.

AOC President John Coates paid tribute to Rogge’s enormous legacy.

“Jacques was a giant of the Olympic movement, and his passing is a great loss to the Olympic family,” Coates said.

“He was a champion athlete, a triple Olympian and great ambassador for fair play. As President of the IOC he helped modernise the Olympic movement, inaugurated the Youth Olympics and was a tireless advocate for clean sport.

“Jacques had a special affection for Australia and we to him as Chair of the IOC Coordination Commission for Sydney 2000 Olympic Games.

“I had the privilege of working closely with Jacques and will forever admire his integrity and immense contribution to the Olympic movement in so many ways.

“My thoughts are with Jacques’ family and friends.”