New FIS President Claims Bright Future Ahead
9th June 2021
Last modified on October 1st, 2021
In a message to the skiing family, Johan Eliasch, promised to build a “bright and growing future” as he laid out his vision for the body that runs snowsport competition.
The Swedish billionaire won the contest to run the International Ski Federation in a four way battle with the Swiss racer Urs Lehmann, GB’s Sarah Lewis and his fellow Swede, Mats Arjes.
We reported on his emphatic victory on June 4th:
Johan Eliasch is new President of International Ski Federation
He has said “I don’t see any losers in this election”.
He promised that “the work starts now” and to represent all nations and disciplines to “take FIS to the next level”.
Those who lost in the election may take a different view.
Johan Eliasch was nominated by GB Snowsport.
The Letter in Full
Dear FIS Friends,
First and foremost, I would like to thank all of you for having engaged so openly and constructively throughout my campaign to become President of FIS.
My ambition was always to bring member Nations together, to create a larger and more involved group of people who can help drive FIS towards a great and sustainable future.
Secondly, after any election generally there are winners and losers.
I don’t see any losers in this election.
This was all about FIS starting on a new journey.
All candidates saw a bright and growing future, and that collective vision is something I want to build upon during my tenure as President.
In thanking those who supported me, I thank also everyone who played their part in making this election one which brought out the best of the FIS family – a passion for snowsport and taking it to the next level.
There is much to be done, and the work starts now.
My role is to represent all Nations and all disciplines, and to help an Executive team deliver on many of the good new ideas which surfaced during the election campaign
As I outlined in my campaign and manifesto, I am dedicated to being open-minded and transparent and to be fully engaged with all nations and all disciplines.
Together, we can take FIS to the next level.
I am fully committed to bringing a more diverse, engaging and entertaining experience for all skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts.
Finding this balance between the fundamental values of our sport and entertainment can only be accomplished in close cooperation with all of our stakeholders, especially our athletes and sponsors.
We have a bright future ahead, and I plan to build FIS in a way that will be the envy of many other sports around the globe.
Sincerely,
FIS President Johan Eliasch
