Figure Skating Star Candeloro Elected Head of French Ice Sports Federation

Philippe Candeloro, a two-time Olympic medalist in figure skating, has been elected president of the French Ice Sports Federation. The former star secured victory in the second round of voting on Saturday, narrowly defeating the outgoing president, Gwenaëlle Noury. Candeloro, who garnered 51.35% of the votes compared to Noury's 46.77%, had positioned himself as a candidate capable of enhancing the federation's financial standing and promoting greater visibility for the sport.

“

I am rather confident because I am a positive person, but it remains an election.

During his campaign, Candeloro emphasized his celebrity status and business acumen as assets that would help attract sponsors and partners. He expressed a desire to organize more sporting events, aiming to bolster the federation's budget, which, while showing a profit last year, remains relatively modest. Candeloro acknowledged that his public image is largely shaped by his media career and expressed a determination to demonstrate his professional capabilities beyond his well-known, sometimes controversial, television persona.

“

My biggest fight is that people know me mainly through my media life rather than my professional life.

Noury, who had led the federation since a surprise victory in 2022, had campaigned on a platform of stability, particularly with the 2030 Winter Olympics on the horizon in the French Alps. She argued for the continuation of her established momentum. However, Candeloro's popularity and his promise of financial revitalization ultimately swayed the voters. The election, which featured six candidates initially, highlighted a desire for change and a new direction for French ice sports as the country prepares to host a major international event.

“

The 2030 deadline is approaching fast, and continuity will be crucial.