Lausanne, Switzerland, December 5, 2025: Two Olympians from Asia, Iranian Soraya Aghaei Haji Agha and Saudi Arabia’s Husein Alireza, have been appointed as members of the IOC Athletes’ Commission.
IOC President Kirsty Coventry appointed five new members of the IOC Athletes’ Commission on Thursday, December 4, ensuring that the body reaches its full composition in time for the Milano Cortina 2026 Olympic Winter Games.
Iran badminton player Soraya Agha and Saudi rower Husein Alireza were appointed along with Cheick Sallah Cisse (Ivory Coast, taekwondo), Olufunke Oshonaike (Nigeria, table tennis), and Mariana Pajon (Colombia, cycling). The appointments were made in consultation with IOC AC Chair Emma Terho.
“The Athletes’ Commission is essential in making sure that athletes remain at the heart of everything we do, and that their voices guide our decisions,” President Coventry said.
“Having had the privilege to serve as both a member and Chair, I understand just how important this role is. I am deeply grateful to our new members for their commitment, and for the wealth of experience they bring in the service of all athletes around the world,” Coventry added.
Iranian Soraya Agha competed at Tokyo 2020 becoming the first female badminton player to represent Iran at the Olympics. She has coached at national level and is a member of the Iran NOC’s Athletes’ Commission.
Saudi Husein Alireza also participated at Tokyo 2020 and combines elite sport with entrepreneurship. Husein has been active across athletes’ commissions in Saudi Arabia and the Olympic Council of Asia.
With these appointments, the IOC AC is now composed of 23 members from all continents (including a member from the Refugee Olympic Team), 13 women and 10 men, representing 15 summer sports and five winter sports.