Sports Minister urges National Olympic Committee to resolve internal crisis following IOC decision

Tuesday, 17 December 2024 02:36 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Sports Minister Sunil Kumara Gamage convened an urgent meeting yesterday at the Sports Ministry with executive members of the National Olympic Committee (NOC) to discuss the International Olympic Committee’s (IOC) recent decision concerning the Sri Lanka Olympic Committee.

During the meeting, the Minister highlighted that the crisis, which has been ongoing for nearly a year, is rooted in internal administrative issues within the NOC. He urged the Committee to take swift action to resolve the matter, stressing that athletes should not be denied opportunities to participate in sports due to these administrative challenges.

“The IOC’s decision reflects the internal disputes within the NOC,” the Minister said. “It is essential that we prioritise our athletes, ensuring they have the freedom and resources to compete and succeed in their respective disciplines.”

Minister Gamage reiterated the Youth Affairs and Sports Ministry’s commitment to providing full support in resolving the crisis. He also called on the NOC to comply with the IOC’s recommendations to restore stability and credibility within the organisation.

Sports Deputy Minister Sugath Thilakaratne, Youth Affairs Deputy Minister Eranga Gunasekara, and Youth Affairs and Sports Ministry Secretary Aruna Bandara joined the discussions. Also in attendance were the Chairman, Secretary, and Executive Committee members of the NOC.