Polish cyclist Maja Włoszczowska has retained her position as First Vice-Chair of the International Olympic Committee's Athletes' Commission. During a meeting in Milan, held as part of the Milano Cortina 2026 Games, new leadership for the body was elected. Legendary Spanish basketball player Pau Gasol became the Chair. The Polish athlete will serve in her role until the conclusion of the Summer Games in Los Angeles in 2028.

Włoszczowska Continues Her Mission

Polish cyclist remains First Vice-Chair of the IOC Athletes' Commission until the conclusion of the Los Angeles 2028 Games.

New Chair Pau Gasol

Legendary Spanish basketball player Pau Gasol assumed the function of Chair of the commission, replacing Kirsty Coventry.

Expanded Commission Executive Board

Humphrey Kayange and Oluseyi Smith joined the board, with a third Vice-Chair position created for Smith.

During the session of the International Olympic Committee in Milan, key personnel decisions regarding athlete representation were made. Maja Włoszczowska, a two-time Olympic silver medalist in mountain biking, was confirmed in the position of First Vice-Chair of the Athletes' Commission. The Polish athlete has held this prestigious role since 2024, and the current election guarantees her influence on the organization's activities until 2028. This is a significant distinction for Polish sport, confirming Włoszczowska's strong position in international structures. The IOC Athletes' Commission serves as a link between athletes and the committee's authorities, safeguarding the interests of competitors in the decision-making process. Commission members are elected directly by participants of the Olympic Games. The new Chair of the commission is Pau Gasol, the decorated Spanish basketball player, who replaces Kirsty Coventry in this position. The executive board was completed by Humphrey Kayange from Kenya as Second Vice-Chair and Oluseyi Smith from Canada, for whom a new, third Vice-Chair position was created. These elections took place during the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Games, highlighting their symbolic importance for the unity of the Olympic movement. The entire board's term will last until the closing of the Los Angeles Games. „It is a great honor and responsibility to continue representing the voice of athletes at such a crucial moment for the Olympic movement.” — Maja Włoszczowska Strengthening the commission's structure with a third vice-chair position aims to improve communication with athletes from various disciplines, including both summer and winter sports. Włoszczowska, who enjoys high authority in the community, remains one of the most influential figures in Polish sports diplomacy. Her continued presence in the IOC's top leadership is seen as a guarantee of the continuation of reforms supporting athlete well-being after their active careers end.

Mentioned People

  • Maja Włoszczowska — Polish cyclist, First Vice-Chair of the IOC Athletes' Commission.
  • Pau Gasol — Spanish basketball player, new Chair of the IOC Athletes' Commission.
  • Humphrey Kayange — Kenyan rugby player, elected as Second Vice-Chair of the commission.
  • Kirsty Coventry — Former Chair of the IOC Athletes' Commission.