Gian-Franco Kasper

Gian-Franco Kasper
Born	(1944-01-24)January 24, 1944 St. Moritz, Switzerland
Died	July 9, 2021(2021-07-09) (aged 77)
Nationality	Swiss
Occupation	Sports administrator

Gian-Franco Kasper (24 January 1944 – 9 July 2021) was a Swiss sports administrator who served as the President of the International Ski Federation (FIS) from 1998 to 2021. Known for his long tenure and influence in winter sports, Kasper was a central figure in the development and promotion of skiing worldwide.

Early Life and Education

Gian-Franco Kasper was born in St. Moritz, Switzerland. He pursued higher education in Switzerland, where he studied at the University of Zurich, earning a degree in journalism and psychology.

Career

Kasper began his career in sports administration early, initially working with the Swiss Ski Association. His proficiency in multiple languages and deep understanding of winter sports helped him rise quickly through the ranks.

International Ski Federation

In 1998, Gian-Franco Kasper was elected as the President of the FIS, succeeding Marc Hodler. During his presidency, Kasper was instrumental in modernizing the sport, expanding its global reach, and increasing its appeal to younger audiences. He also played a key role in the inclusion of new events in the Winter Olympics.

Kasper was known for his outspoken views and sometimes controversial statements regarding climate change and the hosting of the Winter Olympics in non-traditional countries. Despite this, his leadership is credited with strengthening the financial status and global presence of skiing.

Controversies

Throughout his career, Kasper faced criticism for some of his public statements. He was known to have made remarks that were considered dismissive of environmental concerns and insensitive about gender equality in sports. These incidents sparked discussions on governance and the cultural sensitivity required from leaders of international sports organizations.

Legacy

Gian-Franco Kasper's impact on winter sports is notable for his efforts to modernize skiing and make it more accessible and appealing globally. His tenure saw significant growth in the sport's popularity and financial success.

Death

Gian-Franco Kasper passed away on 9 July 2021. The cause of death was not publicly disclosed. Following his death, the FIS acknowledged his contributions and the transformative effect he had on the sport.

See also

• List of Presidents of the International Ski Federation
• Winter Olympic Games

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