ANOC mourns loss of Irena Szewinska

ANOC is saddened to hear the news that Irena Szewinska, IOC Member in Poland and Vice-President of the Poland National Olympic Committee, has passed away at the age of 72.

Irena Szewinska was known around the world for her spectacular career in athletics, having competed in five Olympic Games and having won three gold medals, two silver and two bronze. She was a 10-time record holder in 100m,200m and 400m and a five-time European Champion.

Following her illustrious career as an athlete she maintained her commitment to promoting the Olympic ideals as Vice-President of the Poland National Olympic Committee. She served as President of the Polish Athletic Association from 1997 to 2009 and as Honorary President thereafter. She was a Council Member of European Athletics from 1995 to 2007 and an Honorary Member after that.

During her distinguished career she also served as Vice-President of the Polish Olympian Association, Board Member of the International Olympic Truce Foundation, Vice-President and Executive Board Member of the World Olympians Association, Honorary President of the Polish Women’s Sport Association and Member of the International Association of Athletics Federations’ Women’s Committee. She had been an IOC Member since 1998 and contributed to the organisation of the 2004, 2012 and 2020 Olympic Games.

Szewinska was a hugely respected member of the NOC family and Olympic Movement. Her passion for sport and commitment to promoting Olympism was an inspiration to all. ANOC’s deepest sympathies are with her friends and family at this time.