Cycling: Brian Cookson is no longer President of the World Cycling Union UCI. Four years ago, the Brit took over the post from his predecessor Pat McQuaid, and now he has been voted out by a large majority. His successor, David Lappartient, is by no means a blank slate as an official: he previously led the European cycling association UEC, among other things.
It was a little hinted at, but very few had expected such a clear result. With 37-8 votes this morning, the 45 MPs elected David Lappartient as the new President of the UCI. A resounding slap in the face for the previous incumbent, Brian Cookson, who, although he has been the subject of more and more criticism recently, went into the election with a lot of self-confidence.
[quote]"It is a great responsibility and I will do everything I can to live up to your trust during my four years in office. I am happy that my supporters come from all continents. The projects that I have proposed to the UCI and that they are aware of seem to give great hope to international cycling. I would also like to say a few words to my competitor, Brian Cookson. I can understand his disappointment because I know how passionate he is about this sport. He will of course always be welcome at association events."[/quote]David Lappartient in his acceptance speech
Lappartient has a reputation as a reformer with a clear line. Exactly which projects the new UCI President is aiming for has not yet been made public - but after taking office next Tuesday it should only be a matter of time before he will also speak publicly about the course he wants to take with the association .
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