Tribute to Former OCA Presiden & IOC Honorary Member Raja Randhir Singh

Iran NOC; Tehran: The full article (as reported by the IOC) follows: The International Olympic Committee (IOC) is deeply saddened to announce the passing of Raja Randhir Singh, an esteemed Honorary Member, who died in New Delhi at the age of 79. Singh, widely revered across the globe, was a five-time Olympian and a truly influential figure whose lifelong commitment significantly advanced the Olympic Movement throughout India, Asia, and the international arena. IOC President Kirsty Coventry remarked: “Raja Randhir Singh’s life was wholly devoted to sport. His service to the Olympic Movement, spanning decades as an Olympian, an IOC Member, and a leader in Asian sport, was marked by exceptional loyalty, profound wisdom, and remarkable generosity. He will be remembered not only for his distinguished service and leadership but also for his personal warmth, enduring friendship, and steadfast dedication to sport. On behalf of the International Olympic Committee, we extend our deepest sympathies to his family, friends, and all within the Olympic Movement who had the honour of collaborating with him.”

A distinguished trap and skeet shooter, Singh represented India in five Olympic Games: Mexico City 1968, Munich 1972, Montreal 1976, Moscow 1980, and Los Angeles 1984, also serving as a reserve for the Tokyo 1964 Games. His competitive career highlights include a gold medal in trap shooting at the 1978 Asian Games in Bangkok – a historic achievement that marked India’s first shooting gold at the Asian Games, inspiring future generations and establishing the groundwork for India’s global prominence in the sport. He further secured a bronze medal individually and a silver in the team event at the 1982 Asian Games in New Delhi. Demonstrating an early commitment that foreshadowed his lifelong dedication, Singh was appointed Secretary General of the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) while still an active competitor. Notably, he became the first individual to participate in the Asian Games (1994) while simultaneously holding an executive position within a continental sports organization.

Raja Randhir Singh’s tenure as an IOC Member from 2001 to 2014, followed by his elevation to Honorary Member status, was characterized by significant contributions. He actively participated in various commissions and initiatives, notably serving as the IOC Representative on the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) Foundation Board from 2003 to 2005. Furthermore, Singh served as Secretary General of the Indian Olympic Association for almost three decades, playing a crucial role in shaping the landscape of Indian sports nationally and internationally. Following his extensive service as OCA Secretary General from 1991 to 2015, he stepped into the role of Acting President in 2021, providing steadfast leadership during a period of considerable challenge. He was subsequently elected President in 2024, becoming the first Indian national to hold this prestigious position.

The passing of Raja Randhir Singh represents a profound loss to the Olympic Movement. In a mark of respect, the Olympic flag will be flown at half-mast at Olympic House for three days.