Pink Revolution at Italian NOC

(ATR) Giovanni Malagò is elected to a third term as president of CONI, the Italian National Olympic Committee, while more women than ever are elected to the leadership.

Elected first in 2013, Malagò, 61, will serve until 2025. That will put him in prime position to play a leading role in the lead up to the 2026 Olympic Winter Games in Milan and Cortina. Malagò is also a member of the IOC as an individual, not linked to his status as NOC chief.

"There is nothing more beautiful than being the president of CONI," Malagò commented to Around the Rings.

"It will be my third and last term but I will not spare myself to be strong and credible in this stormy moment caused by the Covid 19 pandemic.

"I will always be on the side of sports," Malagò tells ATR.

Malagò notes the election could be viewed as the start ofa "pink revolution" at the committee. For the first time five women were elected to join the 13 members of the CONI executive board .

The two vice presidents elected at the meeting of the CONI National Council are also women: former hammer thrower Sylvia Salis and ex-alpine skier Claudia Giordani. Giordani, who lives in Milan, will serve as an on the scene representative for CONI in the preparation for the 2026 Olympics.

Malagò faced two opponents in his bid for reelection. Former cycling federation president Renato Di Rocco received 13 votes and two time track cycling gold medalist Antonella Bellutti scored a single vote, clearing the way for Malagò’s election on the first ballot.

Carlo Mornati was confirmed to continue his work as CONI secretary general.

The election the morning of May 13 took place in Milan at the Tennis Club Bonacossa. It was the same venue used 75 years ago when the venerated Giulio Onesti was first elected as president of CONI. The meeting was held in person with 72 members of the National Council attending.

Reported by Ed Hula.