Doha: HE President of the Qatar Olympic Committee (QOC) and Senior Vice President of the Association of National Olympic Committees (ANOC), Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al-Thani, has officially declared his candidacy for the Presidency of the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA). This announcement underscores his commitment to enhancing the development and unity of Asian sport.
According to Qatar News Agency, the announcement comes on the heels of the Olympic Council of Asia's official call for nominations for the upcoming presidential elections, issued on July 15, 2025. The elections will be a highlight of the forthcoming General Assembly scheduled for January 2026 in Tashkent.
Sheikh Joaan expressed his gratitude to the current OCA President, Raja Randhir Singh, for his leadership and contributions to Asian sport. He also supported the OCA Executive Board's decision to appoint Singh as Honorary Life President of the council, acknowledging his enduring legacy and service to the Olympic Movement in Asia.
In his candidacy announcement, Sheikh Joaan emphasized the significant role of sport in fostering development and unity among nations. He spoke about the potential for transformational progress in governance, sustainability, digital transformation, and athlete empowerment within Asian sport.
He also pointed out the importance of equitable opportunity distribution, enhancing collaboration among National Olympic Committees, and improving sports infrastructure. His vision includes creating more platforms for youth and women to play a vital role in shaping the future of sport in the region.
Sheikh Joaan's candidacy is driven by an ambitious strategic vision for Asian sport, based on five core pillars: solidarity, digital transformation, sustainable development, credibility, and economic resilience. His extensive experience with the Qatar Olympic Committee and his active role in the international Olympic Movement bolster his candidacy.
The upcoming OCA election is expected to attract considerable attention from the global sporting community, amid challenges requiring dynamic leadership that fosters transparency, cooperation, and innovation across Asia's sports landscape.
The Olympic Council of Asia, established in 1982 and based in Kuwait City, is a significant continental sports organization. It oversees major multi-sport events such as the Asian Games, Asian Winter Games, and others, contributing to Asia's prominence in the global sporting arena.