Ski and Snowboard Association: Johan Eliasch is no longer Fis President

Liechtensteiner takes over

Controversial Fis president voted out

Fis President Johan Eliasch did not have a good reputation. It is now clear: he is no longer allowed to hold his office.

Johan Eliasch is no longer president of the World Ski and Snowboard Federation Fis. At the congress in Belgrade, the frequently criticized official narrowly lost the election to Alexander Ospelt from Liechtenstein. Eliasch received 64 votes, Ospelt got 65. The Liechtensteiner will therefore take over the office for the next four years.

The Swedish-British billionaire Eliasch was considered one of the most controversial figures in international skiing. There was criticism, among other things, of his administration, his marketing ideas and the financial development of the association. Eliasch even secured Georgian citizenship at short notice for his candidacy.

DSV board member Stefan Schwarzbach said: “This nightmare of years is over. With just one vote ahead – it could hardly have been closer.”

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After his defeat, Eliasch appeared calm. “I always said that this would be a win-win situation for me because either I get my life back or I win the election. So either way I’m very happy,” he said.

At the same time, he made serious allegations against the International Olympic Committee. He heard from many quarters that the IOC tried to influence the vote. “We have to stand firm against this because we are an independent organization,” explained Eliasch.

The election was brought forward following a request from a member on the agenda. In addition, the delegates decided at short notice to conduct the vote using a ballot paper instead of electronically, as originally planned.

In 2021, Eliasch succeeded Gian Franco Kasper, who had led the association for more than 20 years. The head of the sporting goods manufacturer Head came into office with the promise of reforming the Fis and generating additional income for the association and national associations.

In 2022 he was re-elected unopposed. Important ski nations such as Germany, Austria and Switzerland had previously failed in their attempt to vote out Eliasch.

During his time in office, Eliasch was criticized several times. Opponents sometimes described his leadership style as autocratic. Officials also accused him of having caused financial difficulties for the Fis.