The International Olympic Committee kicked of its session in Olympia, site of the ancient Games, on Tuesday that will culminate with the election of a new president on Thursday. Outgoing President Thomas Bach,

Seven candidates in the IOC presidential election came to the most sacred Olympic site on Tuesday, two days before the contest to elect a new leader. Rain at Ancient Olympia meant the ceremonial opening of the four-day meeting could not take place at the Temple of Hera where the Olympic flame is lit before each Summer Games and Winter Games edition.

European Olympic Committees President Spyros Capralos delivers a speech during the opening ceremony for the the 144th International Olympic Committee (IOC) session at the International Olympic Academy in Ancient Olympia, Greece, on March 18, 2025. (Xinhua/Cao Can)