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Winter Vibes from Milano-Cortina
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Dear Colleagues,
Milan was the centre of the world during these unforgettable weeks. The city was alive with the energy of the Milan–Cortina 2026 Winter Olympic Games, which came to a close yesterday. I was proud to be there as AIPS Vice President, former Olympic athlete, and sports journalist.
The Olympics were about more than competition. Having spent twenty years in gymnastics, I know what it means to step out of the locker room and into the spotlight. Over the course of my career, I have covered several Winter Olympic Games as a commentator, and this edition was yet another exceptional professional opportunity.
This time, however, I experienced it all from a different perspective. I followed the Games from the stands and from behind the scenes, while strengthening the relationships that sports journalism and AIPS need for the future. Over those days, I also had the opportunity to sit down with key sports leaders.
Now that the Milano–Cortina Winter Olympic Games have officially concluded, I carry home not only professional experiences, but renewed inspiration and valuable connections for the work ahead.
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Meeting with the President of the European Olympic Committees
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In Milan, I had the opportunity to meet with Mr Spyros Caplaros, President of the European Olympic Committees and a distinguished former water polo player. We discussed the organisational experiences of the Milan-Cortina Olympics, sports policy matters, and how the hosts are managing this immense responsibility. The conversation also turned to the EOC General Assembly in Budapest this June, where Hungary will welcome the European Olympic family. This kind of dialogue between sports leaders and sports journalists is essential. I firmly believe that AIPS must be more actively present at the highest forums of sports diplomacy.
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Building on the African Connection
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Also in Milan, I met with Mr Mustapha Berraf, President of the Association of National Olympic Committees of Africa (ANOCA). I shared with him my recent AIPS Africa experiences in The Gambia and the outcomes of the recent congress, which focused on strengthening Olympic, sports, and sports journalism ties across the continent. We had an important discussion about the deep interconnection between sport, the Olympic movement, and sports journalism. We also spoke about the need for Africa's voice to be heard more strongly in international sports media. As I wrote in my previous letter, The Gambia left a lasting mark on me. This meeting was a continuation of that work. My thanks to President Berraf for the opportunity.
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Shared Goals, Shared Responsibility
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Whether at the Olympic venue or anywhere else, I am working towards the same goal that drives my candidacy for AIPS President on April 12: a stronger, more visible, and more just community of sports journalists. The full details of my presidential programme are available at csisztu.com. I count on your support.
With respect and friendship,
Dr Zsuzsa Csisztu
AIPS Vice President | AIPS Presidential Candidate
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