Sports06 April, 20261 min read
Olympics Mourns Sir Craig Reedie, Architect of London 2012 and WADA Chief
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Reedie died aged 84; former BOA chair and WADA president. Reedie was a key architect of London’s 2012 Olympic bid.
Legacy of Leadership
Sir Craig Reedie was a towering figure in global sport and died at age 84. He served as chair of the British Olympic Association and was the third president of WADA. He was widely credited as a key figure in bringing the Games to London.
Lord Sebastian Coe described Reedie as the epitome of a gentleman. BOA chair Katherine Grainger said he always fought hard for Olympic sport and clean sport.
Pioneer and Sportsman
Reedie began as an international badminton player before transitioning to administration. He led the successful campaign to include badminton in the Olympic programme in 1992.
As WADA president, he presided over the exposure of Russia's state-sponsored doping programme. His tenure at WADA was marked by both criticism and significant developments.
Criticism and Controversy
Reedie's legacy was not without controversy. He was widely criticized for WADA's 2018 decision to lift a suspension on Russian athletes.
He had recommended a total ban on Russia in 2016, a position rejected by the IOC. His death prompted widespread praise for his integrity and dedication.
Tributes Across Sport
Tributes poured in from across the world of sport. IOC President Kirsty Coventry called him a steadfast guardian of integrity.
World Athletics President Sebastian Coe reflected on Reedie as a mentor. Reedie had been awarded the Knight Grand Cross of the Order of the British Empire.
