The article delves into the troubling trend of international sports bodies being run like fiefdoms by presidents who are routinely re-elected without opposition, effectively becoming autocrats. It examines the case of Alisher Usmanov, a sanctioned Russian oligarch, who is poised to make a triumphant return as the president of the International Fencing Federation (FIE), despite the legal and ethical concerns surrounding his candidacy.

Uncovering the Undemocratic Underbelly of Global Sports Governance

The Myth of Democratic Principles in Sports Federations

International sports federations often tout the principle of "one nation, one vote," which appears to be a model of radical democracy. However, this system has led to the emergence of sports bodies that are run like autocratic fiefdoms, with presidents being repeatedly re-elected without opposition. The reason for this is that while all votes may carry equal weight, some voters are more equal than others. Smaller, poorer countries that are financially dependent on their sport's governing body often use their voting power to prop up their benefactors, ensuring the continued rule of these autocratic leaders.

The Usmanov Saga: A Case Study in Sports Corruption

Alisher Usmanov, a sanctioned Russian oligarch with close ties to Vladimir Putin, is poised to make a comeback as the president of the International Fencing Federation (FIE). Despite being subject to a travel ban and asset freeze in 38 countries, including Switzerland where the FIE is headquartered, two-thirds of the FIE's 156 affiliate federations have proposed or endorsed Usmanov's candidacy for the upcoming election. This move sets a new bar for absurdity in the world of sports politics, as Usmanov would be unable to effectively run the organization or attend most of its events due to the sanctions against him.

The Lure of Usmanov's Wealth and the Erosion of Ethical Principles

Usmanov's ability to secure the support of so many affiliate federations is largely due to his generous financial contributions to the FIE. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Usmanov's personal donations amounted to 93% of the FIE's total income, enabling the organization to survive. This financial dependence has led many smaller, poorer countries to prioritize their own self-interest over the ethical principles that should govern international sports bodies. The International Olympic Committee, under whose aegis the FIE operates, has also been criticized for its apparent lack of respect for its own charter's values, given the close relationship between Usmanov and IOC President Thomas Bach.

The Troubling Implications of Usmanov's Potential Election

If Usmanov is elected as the president of the FIE, it would set a dangerous precedent for the future of international sports governance. Not only would it undermine the credibility and integrity of the FIE, but it could also have far-reaching consequences for the broader sports landscape. The legal and ethical concerns surrounding Usmanov's candidacy are significant, as his election could potentially deprive the FIE of access to its own funds due to the sanctions against him. This would further exacerbate the financial challenges faced by the organization and its member federations.

The Need for Meaningful Reform in Sports Governance

The case of Alisher Usmanov and the FIE highlights the urgent need for meaningful reform in the governance of international sports bodies. The current system, which allows for the perpetuation of autocratic rule and the prioritization of financial self-interest over ethical principles, is deeply flawed and must be addressed. Sports organizations must strive to uphold the values of transparency, accountability, and democratic principles, ensuring that the integrity of their respective disciplines is maintained and that the interests of all stakeholders, including athletes and fans, are truly represented.