The International Table Tennis Federation [ITTF] Executive Committee today confirms the suspension of Mr Adham Sharara, former President and current Honorary President of the ITTF, from all activity within or in connection with the ITTF for four years.
The suspension, which commences immediately, follows ITTF proceedings that found Mr Sharara had breached his fiduciary duties during his terms of office.
The decision to suspend Mr Sharara for inappropriate misconduct was reached following a comprehensive investigation and the Executive Committee conducted the process in full accordance with ITTF’s regulations.
The Executive Committee reached this decision with a heavy heart after reviewing evidence reports, financial records and recommendations, including legal advice prepared by external legal counsel Withers KhattarWong and a report by professional services firm BDO. Actions that have led to this decision include:
--Conflict of interest during the process of ITTF buying-back its commercial and marketing contracts from TMS International;
--Interference on the bidding process on a major ITTF equipment contract;
--Inappropriate use of ITTF funds.
The Executive Committee concluded that the ITTF suffered damage as a result of Mr Sharara’s actions. It has therefore taken this difficult decision in order to protect the integrity of the ITTF and the sport of table tennis.
Mr Sharara was informed of charges made against him and was presented with the relevant evidence. He and his legal team rejected various invitations from the Executive Committee to attend hearings to answer their questions, put forward his defence or attempt to resolve the matter in good faith.
The ITTF Executive Committee’s decision to suspend Mr Sharara has been declared final and it considers the matter concluded.
-ENDS-
Note to Editors:
Terms of Mr Sharara’s suspension as ratified by the ITTF Executive Committee:
During the period of his suspension, Mr Sharara may not participate in any capacity in a competition or activity organised by either the ITTF or any ITTF Member Federation. The suspension also applies to any international/national competition or event authorised by the ITTF or any elite or national-level sporting activity funded by the ITTF.
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