International Canoe Federation President Jose Perurena has paid tribute to former IOC colleague Gian-Franco Kasper, who has passed away at the age of 77.

Mr Kasper was a long-standing President of the International Ski Federation (FIS), and had recently stepped down from the position after 23 years and six terms of office. He was an IOC Member from 2000 until 2018, when he was elected as an IOC Honorary Member and received the Olympic Order.

"Gian-Franco was not just a close friend of mine, but he was also a great supporter of canoeing," Mr Perurena said.

"He was very passionate about his work, spending a large part of his life working to keep skiing at the forefront of world sport.

"He will be sorely missed by everyone involved in the Olympic movement, and especially in ski sport. On behalf of the ICF I send my condolences to the family and friends of Gian-Franco." 

A tribute from the IOC to Gian-Franco Kasper can be found here.