Johan Eliasch: Environmental Pioneer Running for IOC President, Leading the “Green Olympics”

Johan Eliasch, 63, is currently the President of the International Ski and Snowboard Federation (FIS) and the only IOC presidential candidate from a winter sports management background.

“I have always ensured that my carbon offset exceeds my emissions.” In 2005, Eliasch made headlines by investing heavily to purchase 400,000 acres of Amazon rainforest for environmental conservation. He pledges to promote a “zero-carbon Olympics”, using the 54% carbon reduction at the Paris Olympics as a starting point to accelerate the sustainability and decarbonization of the Games.

Since taking the helm at FIS, Eliasch has integrated green initiatives into winter sports, driving energy efficiency and sustainability in events to ensure the Winter Olympics can thrive despite climate change. He insists that the Olympics must contribute to global sustainability, not just serve as a sporting stage.

A multi-sport athlete, Eliasch has excelled in curling, golf, skiing, tennis, motor racing, and sailing. He deeply understands the unifying power of sports and advocates for the Olympics to return to its core mission of fostering unity rather than becoming entangled in geopolitical conflicts.

His business acumen sets him apart. As the former CEO of HEAD, a major international sports brand, Eliasch has a keen grasp of the global sports market. “I never planned to run.” The Swedish-British businessman admitted that encouragement from IOC members made him realize that his expertise in environmental policy, business leadership, and sports governance is exactly what the Olympics needs.

The Olympics should reach new frontiers. Eliasch advocates for hosting the Winter Olympics in South America and the Summer Olympics in the Middle East or Africa, truly globalizing the Games and expanding their impact worldwide.

If elected, Eliasch will become the first IOC president with a winter sports leadership background, steering the Olympic Movement toward a sustainable, green future. Upon assuming office, he will resign from all other positions to fully dedicate himself to the IOC.