IOC Restores Funding to Indian Olympic Association After Governance Reforms and Key CEO Appointment

The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) on Wednesday, September 3, welcomed the International Olympic Committee’s (IOC) decision to fully reinstate its partnership through the Olympic Solidarity programmes, marking the end of an 11-month suspension of funding that had threatened India’s sporting preparations.

The development comes after a turbulent year for the IOA, which saw the IOC suspend funding in October 2024 amid internal disputes and governance concerns. In correspondence to IOA president PT Usha at the time, IOC director James Macleod cited “ongoing internal disputes and governance issues” within the IOA’s executive council, noting that the situation created “a lot of uncertainty” and warranted suspension of Olympic Solidarity payments, barring direct athlete scholarships.

The suspension was triggered by a bitter public fallout between Usha and members of the IOA executive council, fuelled by disagreements over her appointment of Raghuram Iyer as IOA Chief Executive Officer on a reported monthly salary of Rs 20 lakh. Usha had then placed the blame squarely on IOA treasurer and Weightlifting Federation of India chief, Sahdev Yadav, for orchestrating the impasse.

Wednesday’s announcement by the IOC signals a turnaround in the governance fortunes of Indian sport. In a letter addressed to the IOA president, the IOC commended the “positive measures taken by the IOA and the Government of India to strengthen the sporting ecosystem and support athletes at every level, from grassroots to elite.” It identified two key reforms underpinning the reinstatement: the formal appointment of Raghuram Iyer as the IOA’s CEO and the Government’s adoption of the National Sports Governance Act, which the IOC described as pivotal in laying a stronger foundation for sport in India.

PT USHA WELCOMES MOVE

With Olympic Solidarity programmes back in place, India’s athletes stand to benefit most directly. The restored support is expected to provide crucial funding and development opportunities for training, preparation, and participation in the Olympic Games and other major international competitions.

Usha hailed the reinstatement as a landmark moment for Indian sport.

“This reflects our shared commitment—from the IOA to the Government of India, under the new and transformative sports legislation—to uphold the highest standards of governance in sport,” Usha said. “Together, we are shaping a strong and promising future for India’s athletes. This renewed partnership with the IOC will play a vital role in helping our athletes realise their Olympic aspirations. We sincerely thank the IOC for its continued trust, support, and guidance.”

The IOA reaffirmed its commitment to working in close partnership with the IOC to further strengthen the Olympic Movement in India and to ensure sustained support for athletes across disciplines.

The resumption of funding and partnership comes at a critical juncture, with India’s preparations intensifying for upcoming international competitions, including the 2026 Asian Games and the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games.