The Fall of Sheikh Ahmad Al-Sabah: From Influence to Exclusion

The once-powerful sports figure, Sheikh Ahmad Al-Fahad Al-Sabah, is no longer an IOC member after his term ended. Banned for 15 years due to ethics breaches, his influence waned following a forgery conviction in Switzerland. Once close to IOC President Bach, he also led significant Olympic financial operations.

Sheikh Ahmad Al-Fahad Al-Sabah, once a towering figure in the world of sports politics, finds himself on the outskirts as his membership with the International Olympic Committee (IOC) concludes. The Kuwaiti, barred for 15 years last year due to ethics violations, did not seek to extend his membership.

His departure follows a conviction by a Swiss court for forgery linked to a fake arbitration procedure in 2021. Sheikh Ahmad's influence over sports politics, previously extending to both the IOC and FIFA, has significantly reduced following these charges. His involvement in Kuwait's defense ministry from 2023 to 2024 highlights his once expansive reach.

Noted for steering the Olympic Solidarity program, which allocates over $650 million toward athlete and Olympic committee development, Sheikh Ahmad's fall from grace marks a significant shift in sports leadership dynamics. His previous alliances and leadership within the IOC and the Association of National Olympic Committees are now part of a history marred by legal controversies.

(With inputs from agencies.)