World Athletics mourns former vice president
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Reading Time: 2min | Tue. 27.01.26. | 13:40
Lou held senior leadership roles within China’s sports governance, including Sports Director of the Beijing Bid Committee
World Athletics has announced with deep sorrow the passing of Lou Dapeng, Vice President of the organisation from 1999 to 2007 and a lifelong advocate for the sport.
Lou’s career in athletics administration spanned decades.
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He joined the World Athletics Council, then known as the IAAF, in 1984, later serving as Vice President and chairing the Competition Commission.
He also contributed to the International Athletics Foundation, shaping competitions and policies that strengthened the sport worldwide.
His passion for athletics began in childhood while living in the United Kingdom, where attending the 1948 London Olympic Games inspired a lifelong commitment to sport.
Returning to China in 1953, Lou competed nationally and later dedicated his career to developing athletics in China and integrating the country more fully into the global sporting community.
Lou held senior leadership roles within China’s sports governance, including Sports Director of the Beijing Bid Committee and the Beijing Organising Committee for the 2008 Olympic Games, helping elevate China’s technical and elite programmes on the international stage.
Renowned for his professionalism, diplomacy, and global outlook, Lou earned the respect of peers worldwide.
In 2003, he received the World Athletics Silver Order of Merit and was later named an Honorary Life Vice President.
“Lou Dapeng devoted his entire life to sport,” said Sun Yuanfu, President of the Chinese Athletics Association. “He was a bridge connecting China’s athletics with the world. His expertise, vision, and humility earned him the highest respect, and his legacy will continue to inspire generations of athletes and administrators.”
