Craig Reedie, a towering figure in global sport governance, has died aged 84. His influence stretched across decades, shaping Olympic policy and the fight for clean competition.
Reedie led the British Olympic Association from 1992 to 2005, as he oversaw a transformative period. He later rose to become president of the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA), serving between 2014 and 2019.
During his BOA tenure, he played a crucial role in securing London 2012 Olympic Games. He also contributed directly as a director within the organising committee.His global influence expanded through the International Olympic Committee (IOC), where he held senior roles.
He served on the executive board and later as vice president.”If you have worked in Olympic sport, then it’s highly likely that you would have known Sir Craig Reedie. How lucky we all were,” said Katherine Grainger.
“Few knew the Olympic movement better and fewer still served it with such distinction. His dedicated service to the BOA, to the IOC and to Wada is notable.
“He always fought hard for Olympic sport, and fought harder still for clean sport. In doing so he saw the good and, inevitably, the bad of our sporting system.
“It was the measure of Craig that it never diminished his love of sport. And the Olympic movement in particular.”
Reedie’s legacy in clean sport and Olympic leadership endures
Sebastian Coe described Reedie as “the epitome of a gentleman” and a guiding figure.
“Craig was my mentor, wise counsel, passionate advisor, and great friend,” Coe said.
“He was the distinguished elder statesman with a reservoir of Olympic knowledge and experience. Which he shared willingly and to great effect.
“Without Craig and his leadership of the British Olympic Association, we may never have won the right to host London 2012. Craig was a sportsman at heart, but he had the mind and tenacity of a politician.
“He was equal parts opinionated, wise, canny and, most of all, loyal,” Coe added.
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Before administration, Reedie represented Great Britain in badminton during the 1960s. He later led efforts to bring the sport into the Olympic programme.
As WADA president, he oversaw key anti-doping battles, including sanctions against Russia. His tenure tested his resolve but reinforced his commitment to fairness.
“Sir Craig dedicated his whole life to the service of sport and the Olympic Movement,” said Kirsty Coventry.
“He was a steadfast guardian of integrity… his contribution will endure for generations.”
Tags: Craig Reedie, World Anti-Doping Agency, WADA, International Olympic Committee, IOC, Sebastian Coe, Kirsty Coventry, Olympic committee, Olympics, British Olympic Association, Katherine Grainger.
