By Dr. Astrit Hasani, Founder of the Sport Above Politics Movement
As the world becomes ever more turbulent, with conflicts and political tensions escalating daily, the pressure on IOC and sporting bodies is immense.
The recent media session with IOC President Kirsty Coventry highlighted this reality, particularly around the United States’ actions in Venezuela and diplomatic gestures involving Israel.
Calls to ban US athletes from the upcoming Winter Games illustrate how easily politics can overshadow sport.
Hence, I urge President Coventry, the IOC, and the global sporting community not to be influenced by external pressures, to rise above the noise of geopolitical tensions, and let us together commit, once and for all, that sport stands above politics, now and forever.
The principle behind the Sport Above Politics movement is simple. No matter how many wars are being fought, who starts them, or what conflicts dominate headlines, the competition of world athletes should never be a reflection of political endorsement. Sporting arenas should remain neutral grounds where dedication, discipline, and excellence are celebrated without prejudice. Every athlete, regardless of nationality, deserves the opportunity to compete and inspire.
As a multiple Olympic champion, President Kirsty Coventry brings to her role a rare credibility shaped by excellence, humility, and lived sporting experience. Her commitment to maintaining direct and open dialogue with athletes and sports leaders demonstrates a leadership approach rooted in listening, inclusion, and the long-term strengthening of the Olympic Movement. In this context, President Coventry has shown caution in navigating these pressures, but now is the right moment to fully embrace sport’s true power: Sport Above Politics.
Let the Games in Milano Cortina, and all competitions, remind us that sport can rise above politics, unite people across divides, and celebrate human potential, irrespective of nationality or political climate.
Dr. Astrit Hasani
Founder, Sport Above Politics