Andrew Parsons International Paralympic Committee IPC

Andrew Parsons appointed as new International Paralympic Committee President

September 8, 2017

Andrew Parson was elected as the International Paralympic Committee’s (IPC) new President today, 8 September, following the voting at the 18th IPC General Assembly in Abu Dhabi, UAE.

Parsons was chosen ahead of fellow presidential candidates Patrick Jarvis, John Petersson and Haidi Zhang. He succeeds Sir Philip Craven who stood down after 16 years in the role.

“I am absolutely delighted and I don’t know what to say. I would like to thank the IPC membership for their trust” said Parsons, who becomes the third President in IPC’s history.“

“Throughout my campaign, I think I have explained what I plan to do as IPC President and the membership understood and gave me their support. Now it is time to roll up the sleeves and work really hard with the membership and the new Governing Board.”

For the role of vice president, Duane Kale was elected in a close race which 160 members voted in. The New Zealand four-time Paralympic champion polled 81 votes while John Petersson polled 79.

“It is a little bit surreal but I am elated. It will take time to sink in,” said Kale. “This has to be one of the most wonderful things to happen to me life-wise. I am very emotional.

“I am really looking forward to working with the new President. I think we will make a fantastic team and I think that is important for the Movement.”

The President was elected by secret ballot by the IPC membership which is made up of National Paralympic Committees, International Federations, International Organisations for the Disabled and Regional Organisations.

In the first round, 162 members voted and Parsons secured 84 votes, having needed an absolute majority of 82 to win.

“Going forward the relationship with the IOC is going to be key. We have some very important decisions ahead; sport is at a difficult moment at this time and we have many things in common that we have to fight for,” Parsons added.

“It is fundamental that we work together, co-operate and I am sure we will do that.”

Andrew Parsons International Paralympic Committee IPC