UK Sport is saddened to hear of the passing of Sir Craig Reedie, one of the most influential figures in British Olympic sport and a central figure in the global Olympic Movement.
Sir Craig served as Chair of the British Olympic Association from 1992 to 2005 and played a pivotal role in securing and shaping the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games. He was also a long-standing member and Vice-President of the International Olympic Committee, and later President of the World Anti-Doping Agency, where he led the global fight for clean sport.
UK Sport Chair, Professor Nick Webborn CBE DL, said:
I was deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Sir Craig Reedie. The word ‘titan’ is often overused, but in Craig’s case it is entirely deserved. He was a towering figure in British Olympic sport and someone whose impact will be felt for generations to come.
Craig was deeply passionate about British Olympic sport, and that passion was evident in everything he did. This combined with his clear and ambitious vision for Olympic sport in the UK, and for Britain’s place within the global Olympic movement, made him such a powerful force for good and one of the most influential figures in our sporting history.
Throughout the history of UK Sport, Craig has been a steadfast ally. His leadership, tenacity and belief were essential in working with us to transform the UK’s Olympic and Paralympic fortunes from the depths of Atlanta 1996 to the leading global force we are today, supporting thousands of athletes along the way. Craig was also a great advocate and supporter of our work in bringing some of the biggest and best global events in the world to our shores, where his trusted advice, experience and expertise will be greatly missed.
It was a privilege to work with Craig on the London 2012 bid, helping to lay the foundations for one of the greatest Olympic and Paralympic Games there has ever been. As a long-serving member and Vice-President of the International Olympic Committee, and later as President of the World Anti-Doping Agency, he played a central role in shaping the global sporting landscape, championing the Olympic Movement and leading the fight for clean sport with integrity and resolve. His leadership, both as Chair of the British Olympic Association and on the international stage, helped shape a sporting system that continues to benefit athletes and inspire the nation today. Beyond his achievements, Craig was a generous and wise presence, always willing to offer guidance and support.
My thoughts are with Lady Rosemary and his family at this time. On behalf of a sporting system that continues to benefit from his vision, ambition and passion, I simply say thank you.