PARIS, Feb. 14 (Xinhua) -- International Olympic Committee (IOC) presidential candidate David Lappartient has outlined a vision that seeks to balance continuity with modernization, pledging to build on the existing Olympic framework while embracing emerging trends such as esports and artificial intelligence.

The 51-year-old Frenchman is currently president of the French National Olympic and Sports Committee (CNOSF) and an IOC member since 2022. He also serves as president of the International Cycling Union (UCI) and chair of the IOC Esports Commission, positioning him as a key figure in the Olympic Movement's digital transformation.

Lappartient has made it clear that his approach would focus on evolution rather than revolution, emphasizing stability while integrating new initiatives.

"Much has already been accomplished in recent years under president Thomas Bach. I salute his vigorous efforts to promote sport and our values," he wrote in his manifesto. "It would be wise to stay the course while rising to the challenges of a changing world. However, I must say that I find evolution more appealing than revolution."

As head of the French National Olympic and Sports Committee, Lappartient played a role in the planning and execution of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, an event widely praised for its organizational success and sustainability initiatives.

Lappartient highlighted key takeaways from the Games, particularly in areas such as sustainable event management, enhancing the athlete experience, and increasing engagement with younger audiences and host cities.

The Frenchman added that these experiences can serve as a model for future Games, reinforcing the need for efficient planning, strong governance and closer collaboration with host cities.

One of Lappartient's most prominent roles in the IOC has been leading efforts to bring esports into the Olympic ecosystem. As chair of the IOC Esports Commission, he spearheaded the Olympic Esports Week in Singapore in 2023, a landmark event showcasing the potential of virtual sports within the Olympic Movement.

Lappartient envisions a structured approach to esports integration, ensuring that Olympic values are upheld while leveraging the sector's rapid growth to engage younger audiences. He has also advocated for broader discussions on digital transformation, including the use of artificial intelligence in sports governance and athlete development.

Beyond digital innovation, Lappartient's campaign manifesto highlights several governance and sustainability priorities:

-A more structured host city selection process, ensuring long-term benefits and legacy for Olympic host nations.

-Increased gender balance within the IOC, aiming for full gender parity among members by 2036.

-Stronger anti-doping efforts, calling for increased funding to the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) to enhance testing and research.

-A commitment to environmental responsibility, particularly in mitigating the impact of global warming on winter sports.

Lappartient has emphasized that the Olympic Movement must remain a platform for unity and cooperation. The Frenchman says that all IOC member committees and athletes should have opportunities to participate in international sporting events, while governance decisions should be guided by Olympic values and a long-term vision for global sports development.

Lappartient is one of seven candidates vying to succeed Bach, who has led the IOC since 2013 and will step down in 2025.

The 144th IOC Session in Greece on March 18-21 will determine the next leader of the Olympic Movement, setting the course for the organization's future direction. Enditem

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