The Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) has a new leader: 77-year-old Raja Randhir Singh was elected president at the 44th General Assembly of the OCA held in New Delhi. The experienced Indian athlete, who competed in five Olympic Games, was elected unopposed for the 2024-2028 term. With an overwhelming majority of 44 votes in favor and one abstention, Singh assumed the role in an atmosphere filled with applause and congratulations from the delegates present.
Singh’s election was part of an uncontested process, which also included the election of five vice presidents for the five Asian zones and five members of the Executive Committee. The electronic voting, carried out via tablet, required a simple majority from the 45 National Olympic Committees. Singh expressed his gratitude to the Assembly for their support, emphasizing the unity of Asia and his desire to lead with the backing of a “united family.”
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Singh boasts an impressive career both as an athlete and in sports administration. As a shooter, he participated in five editions of the Olympic Games, from Mexico 1968 to Los Angeles 1984, and distinguished himself at the Asian Games with gold and bronze medals. Administratively, he has served as Secretary General of the OCA for more than two decades and has been a lifetime vice president since 2015, cementing his role as a key figure in the development of Asian sports.
Among the newly elected vice presidents are Timothy Fok (Hong Kong, China) for East Asia, Dr. Norza Zakaria (Malaysia) for Southeast Asia, and His Royal Highness Prince Jigyel Ugyen Wangchuck (Bhutan) for South Asia. The Executive Committee members include notable figures like Mikako Kotani (Japan) and Olga Rybakova (Kazakhstan).
Raja Randhir Singh has also received multiple honors throughout his career, including the Arjuna Award, the Olympic Order of Silver, and several recognitions from the OCA and ANOC. With his vast knowledge and experience, he is expected to continue strengthening the influence of Asian sports on the global stage.
