Sir Craig Reedie, a prominent figure in the Olympic community and former chair of the British Olympic Association (BOA), has passed away at the age of 84. Reedie played a crucial role in securing the 2012 Olympic Games for London and was a significant influence in sports administration.

Reedie, who hailed from Scotland, also held the position of president of the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) during a challenging time when Russia was implicated in widespread state-sponsored doping across various sports, including during the 2014 Sochi Olympics. In response to these findings, Reedie and WADA advocated for Russia’s exclusion from the 2016 Rio Olympics, a recommendation that was ultimately dismissed by the International Olympic Committee (IOC).

During his time at WADA, Reedie also served as vice-president of the IOC and was previously an accomplished badminton player who championed the sport’s inclusion in the Olympics beginning with the 1992 Barcelona Games.

Sebastian Coe, president of World Athletics and chair of the London Games organizing committee, expressed his sorrow over Reedie’s passing, describing him as a mentor, wise advisor, and a cherished friend. Coe emphasized Reedie’s invaluable contributions to the Olympic movement, stating, “Without Craig and his leadership of the BOA, we may never have won the right to host London 2012.” He characterized Reedie as both a passionate sportsman and a shrewd political figure, recognized for his loyalty and wisdom.

Reedie’s journey in sports began in the 1960s when he represented Great Britain in badminton. His administrative career took flight with the Scottish Badminton Union, and he was elected president of the International Badminton Federation in 1981. Reedie became chair of the BOA in 1992 and joined the IOC in 1994, later serving as vice-president from 2012 to 2016 while also presiding over WADA.

Dame Katherine Grainger, the current chair of the BOA, acknowledged Reedie’s commitment to combating doping and his unwavering support for Olympic athletes. “If you have worked in Olympic sport, then it’s highly likely you would have known Sir Craig Reedie,” Grainger remarked, reflecting on his approachable nature and encouraging demeanor. She highlighted his extensive knowledge of the Olympic movement and his distinguished service to the BOA, IOC, and WADA.

Grainger fondly recalled how Reedie awarded her Olympic medals and provided heartfelt support during significant moments in her career. She expressed hope that Lady Rosemary and Reedie’s family could find solace in the love and respect held for him within the Olympic community.