Lord Coe Named New Boa Chairman

Lord Coe, the London 2012 Olympic chief, has been elected as chairman of the British Olympic Association, and will be tasked with trying to help Team GB build towards Rio in 2016 – following their successful medal tally in London. 

The decision had been expected following the withdrawal of Coe’s only opposition, Richard Leman, the boss of British hockey, who had faced an unlikely task against the 56-year old after the success of the London 2012 Games.

Coe said of his appointment: ‘Following the tremendous impact of the London 2012 Games, the BOA has an important role to play in ensuring the growth of the Olympic movement throughout the UK and the continued success and support of Team GB at future Olympic Games.’

He added: ‘I believe the BOA is uniquely positioned to work collaboratively with partners across government and sport to ensure there is a meaningful legacy resulting from the London 2012 Games – a legacy that positively impacts every level of sport and continues to inspire young people around the UK to choose sport.

Prime Minister David Cameron said of Coe: ‘Seb demonstrated inspirational leadership in delivering the best ever Olympic and Paralympic Games this summer and as a double Olympic gold medallist himself there can be no better choice for BOA chairman, said Cameron.

Meanwhile, the London Legacy Development Corporation has revealed that the Olympic Stadium will not be reopened until August 2015 after new chief executive Dennis Hone said there was still more work to do in finalising the tenant bids.