John Coates rules out Brisbane 2032 Olympics CEO role

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 1 Nov, 06:20 · Archive

John Coates has ruled himself out of applying for the Brisbane 2032 chief executive position.

John Coates, a veteran Australian Olympic administrator aged 76, has ruled himself out of applying for the Brisbane 2032 chief executive position. The role will become vacant when current CEO Cindy Hook steps down in December. Coates has been an influential figure in the Olympic movement for over 40 years, serving as president and vice-president of the Australian Olympic Committee and vice-president of the International Olympic Committee. He is an IOC honorary member and part of the 15-person Brisbane 2032 board.

Coates told AAP he was not interested in the role, citing his background and age. 'Not at this age and I wasn't interested in Sydney (2000 Games), because I was a senior vice-president,' he said. 'It's project planning, I'm a lawyer. My background is not running 65 events over a period of two weeks.' The Sydney-born administrator moved to Burleigh Heads in Queensland last year to be closer to the Games and acknowledged the need to urgently find a replacement for Hook.

Coates also discussed rowing venues for 2032, noting debate around the suitability of Rockhampton. He said assessments had indicated racing could occur on the Fitzroy River 'in fair conditions, unless there's a flood'. He disclosed that he has recently battled health issues, including cancer, which he said is now under control.

How it is being reported

• Brisbane 2032 Olympics: Coates won't chase CEO jobJohn Coates isn't interested in applying for the CEO post for the 2032 Olympics, also opening up about a divisive venue choice for a sport close to his heart.The West Australian · 1 Nov, 06:01
• Brisbane 2032 Olympics: Coates won't chase CEO jobJohn Coates isn't interested in applying for the CEO post for the 2032 Olympics, also opening up about a divisive venue choice for a sport close to his heart.Perth Now · 1 Nov, 06:01

In this story: John Coates · Brisbane · Cindy Hook · Australian Olympic Committee · International Olympic Committee · Rockhampton · Fitzroy River · Sydney

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