Non-Olympic Federations Begin SportAccord Exodus

(ATR) The 23 federations in the Alliance of Independent Members of SportAccord are among those calling for unity in the Olympic Movement.

Around the Rings has obtained a letter, dated May 25, from AIMS president Stephen Fox to the presidents of the IOC, ASOIF, AIOWF, SportAccord and ARISF.

He speaks up for the smaller sports, who lack the same profile, financial backing or support enjoyed by larger sports.

"Newer and smaller sports remind us that sport is dynamic, becoming ever more global and inclusive. It is for this reason, for the picture that emerges when all the sports are united and workingtogether, that we appeal to all sports leaders to sit together, regardless of the circumstances, to create a dialogue so that our common goals may continue to prevail," Fox said.

He urged those in conflict in the Olympic Movement to "think of the athletes… They are the best reason for holding dialogue that I can think of.

"We need both the IOC and SportAccord. We are always stronger when we stand together, and we are always richer when our many voices can be heard in harmony. The 23 international sportingfederations belonging to AIMS sincerely request your consideration to hold a dialogue for the relevant parties to meet together and seek a way forward," Fox added.

The statements from ANOC and AIMS came as karate and korfball followed the FIA in becoming the first non-Olympic federations to exit SportAccord, citing Vizer’s rant against the IOC as the main reason.

A letter from World Karate Federation president to Vizer explained why it had has decided to suspend its relationship with SportAccord.

"Your actions since Sochi have forced us to take this unpleasant decision. Additionally, neither the IFs, nor the SportAccord Council - where all the IFs are represented - have been consulted on the stance you have taken," he said.

"The World Karate Federation also wants to take this opportunity to express its full confidence in the IOC, in its president and in all the IOC structures, and we look forward to a continued close relationship with the IOC."

In a letter to the SportAccord president, seen by ATR, the International Korfball Federation echoed karate’s views, criticising Vizer for failing to consult before blasting the IOC.

"The divide that has emerged as a consequence of your remarks harms the position of all international federations, including ours," the letter signed by korfball president Jan Fransoo.

Pledging support to the declaration made by president Perurena of the International World Games Association in which he expresses strong disagreement with Vizer’s remarks in Sochi, Fransoo said good collaboration between SportAccord and the IFs was valued.

We look forward hence to continue collaboration with our colleagues in ARISF, ASOIF, AIOWF, and AIMS, and are looking forward to resume our good cooperation within SportAccord and the related activities when the present situation will be resolved in a positive manner for International Sport," he added.

Written by Mark Bisson

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