Vice President's Column

1. Chairing the Paris 2024 Olympic Games Evaluation Working Group

As Chair of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games Evaluation Working Group, significant progress has been made in initiating the evaluation process of this major event. The following key strategic areas have been identified for comprehensive assessment: 

A. Competition Schedule

• Analysed the overall competition timeline to ensure it met the demands of the Olympic Games and maximised audience engagement. 
• Highlighted opportunities for improvements regarding time slots for high-demand events to enhance visibility for canoe disciplines. 

B. Technical Organisation

• Reviewed infrastructure, equipment, and officiating processes to ensure alignment with ICF standards. 
• Focused on streamlining workflows for competition officials and technical teams. 

C. Sports Presentation

• Evaluated in-venue presentation elements such as commentator engagement, music, and graphics. 
• Discussed ways to improve visual storytelling for spectators both on-site and via broadcast platforms. 

D. Athlete and Stakeholder Experience

• Initiated surveys and consultations to capture athlete feedback on competition logistics, accommodations, and facilities. 
• Engaged with stakeholders to assess their satisfaction and identify areas for improvement in event delivery. 

E. Inclusivity and Accessibility

• Addressed accessibility for athletes, spectators, and staff with disabilities. 
• Focused on creating an inclusive environment for all participants. 

F. Sustainability and Innovation

• Highlighted Paris 2024's environmental sustainability initiatives, including resource management and carbon neutrality goals. 
• Proposed additional areas where canoe sports can contribute to innovation and sustainability. 

G. Conclusions for the Board of Directors

• Compiled key findings to present a preliminary summary to the Board of Directors. 
• Recommendations on operational improvements, athlete welfare, and the sport's visibility will be finalised. 

2. Development of the New Olympic Qualification System for LA 2028

The second key task undertaken has been the initiation of the Olympic Qualification System Working Group for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games. This group is tasked with designing a fair, transparent, and forward-thinking qualification process. 

• Launched the first phase of the project to gather input from National Federations and stakeholders. 
• Emphasized the need to streamline qualification pathways to ensure accessibility for emerging nations. 
• Set a timeline for periodic progress updates, targeting a completed draft proposal for mid-2025. 

3. November Visit to ICF Headquarters in Lausanne

Following the ICF Congress, I visited the ICF Headquarters in Lausanne in November to address key strategic and operational priorities: 

A. Finalising the RFP Evaluation for TV Production and Digital Content

• Reviewed submissions from companies that applied to the Request for Proposals (RFP) for TV Production, Distribution, and Digital Content. 
• Evaluated technical capabilities, pricing, and value-added services. 
• Finalised recommendations for the selection process to ensure the ICF secures a partner capable of enhancing global coverage and audience engagement. 

B. Key Conversations with Oklahoma City Stakeholders

• Initiated discussions with stakeholders in Oklahoma City to prepare for upcoming events: 
• 2026 Canoe Slalom World Championships. 
• LA 2028 Olympic Games for Canoe Slalom and Kayak Cross. 
• Outlined initial frameworks for event delivery, infrastructure needs, and athlete experience improvements. 
• These preparations mark a critical step towards ensuring these events meet international standards. 

4. Supporting the Athletes' Commission

In my role as Vice President, I provided active support to the Athletes' Commission Chair Bridgitte Hartley to prepare for 2025 initiatives and future elections: 

• Assisted in planning the nomination and election process for the Commission. 
• Supported communication strategies to increase athlete participation and engagement in decision-making processes. 
• Ensured alignment of the Commission's goals with broader ICF objectives, emphasising athlete representation and welfare. 

5. Strategic Meeting in Rome with ICF Leadership

In December, I attended a high-level meeting in Rome alongside the ICF President, Vice Presidents, and Secretary General to align on critical topics for the upcoming Olympic cycle. 

Key Discussion Points: 

1. Future Olympic Strategy: Defined priorities for canoe disciplines in the lead-up to LA 2028, including growing fan engagement and enhancing visibility. 
2. Governance & Organisational Goals: Addressed strategic decisions to improve operational efficiency and collaboration across all levels of the federation. 
3. Athlete-centered Focus: Reaffirmed the importance of athlete welfare as the foundation of ICF strategies. 
4. Innovative Solutions for Growth: Discussed digital innovations, broadcast strategies, and event management to grow canoe sports globally. 

This meeting set the groundwork for unified decision-making and leadership clarity in addressing challenges and opportunities over the coming years. 

Conclusion 

The final quarter of 2024 has been marked by significant strides in planning, evaluation, and stakeholder engagement. Key milestones achieved include: 

• Launching the Paris 2024 Olympic Games Evaluation Working Group. 
• Initiating the Olympic Qualification System for LA 2028. 
• Finalising strategic partnerships for TV Production and Digital Content. 
• Supporting the Athletes' Commission in their 2025 preparations. 
• Aligning leadership strategies during the Rome meeting. 

These efforts demonstrate a clear commitment to the growth, innovation, and sustainability of canoe sports on a global scale as we prepare for future milestones in the Olympic Movement. 

By Lluis Rabaneda i Caselles, Vice President of the ICF