Andrzej Kraśnicki, a towering figure in Polish sports and the Olympic movement, passed away on January 10, 2025, after battling a prolonged illness. He was 75. Kraśnicki’s contributions to sports were unparalleled, and his passing marks a significant loss for the global sports community.
Kraśnicki served as the President of the Polish Olympic Committee (PKOl) from 2010 to 2023 and was later named Honorary President. He also held influential roles within international organizations, including the European Olympic Committees, the Association of National Olympic Committees, and the World Anti-Doping Agency. His leadership extended to domestic sports, having led the Polish Handball Association and the Polish Sports Confederation.
An advocate for international collaboration, Kraśnicki championed Poland’s presence on the global sports stage. He brokered partnerships with National Olympic Committees and promoted Polish officials in leading international sports organizations. His efforts extended beyond sports, intertwining culture and diplomacy through initiatives such as organizing classical music concerts to promote Poland abroad.
A recipient of Poland’s highest honors, including the Grand Cross of the Order of Polonia Restituta in 2024, Kraśnicki was celebrated both at home and abroad. He was also awarded honorary doctorates from multiple universities for his contributions to sports and education.
Kraśnicki’s roots in sports began as a youth handball player for Poland’s junior national team in the 1960s. He later became a coach, ski instructor, and lifeguard, dedicating his life to fostering athletic excellence and sportsmanship.
His legacy as a leader, innovator, and promoter of sports and culture will continue to inspire future generations. The Polish Olympic Committee described his passing as “a great loss for Polish sports and the Olympic movement worldwide.”