Crisis at the Olympic Committee of Nepal: IOC and OCA meet to resolve the conflict

Víctor García

February 17, 2025

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) and the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) have intensified their efforts to resolve the ongoing crisis within the Nepal Olympic Committee (NOC). Through a series of official communications, both entities have convened all involved parties for a meeting in Kuwait on March 5, 2025, with the aim of reaching a consensus-based solution.

In a letter sent on February 14, the IOC and OCA confirmed that the Olympic Council of Asia has been tasked with organizing this meeting, where they hope to find an agreement that adheres to the Olympic Charter and the Basic Universal Principles of Good Governance within the Olympic Movement.

A CRISIS THREATENING THE SPORTS IN NEPAL

The internal conflict within the Nepal Olympic Committee has raised concerns among international sports organizations, which have reiterated their interest in ensuring that the country’s athletes are not negatively impacted. The IOC has emphasized that any resolution must prioritize the well-being of Nepali athletes and the stability of the organization.

As part of efforts to resolve the situation, the Secretary General of the Nepal Olympic Committee, Nilendra Shrestha, has been formally invited to attend the meeting in Kuwait. In a letter dated February 17, 2025, the OCA requested that Shrestha submit a copy of his passport to facilitate the issuance of his entry visa for Kuwait.

INTERNATIONAL INTERVENTION TO AVOID SANCTIONS

The intervention of the IOC and OCA aims to prevent potential sanctions that could lead to the suspension of the Nepal Olympic Committee, which would bar its athletes from competing internationally under the Nepali flag. In this context, the Asian governing body has taken the initiative to contact all involved parties directly and keep the IOC informed of any developments.

The March 5 meeting is expected to be a turning point in the crisis and to lay the foundation for a resolution that upholds Olympic principles. The outcome of this dispute will be crucial for the future of the Nepal Olympic Committee and the country’s continued participation on the international sports stage.