(ATR) A two-year saga ends today as International Olympic Committee member from the Netherlands, Camiel Eurlings, steps down from his IOC duties.
In July 2015, Eurlings’ ex-girlfriend filed charges of assault against him. Eurlings informed the IOC of the allegations in February 2016 but no actions were taken.
Despite reaching a settlement with the plaintiff in March 2017 outside of court with no criminal charges and no admission of guilt, Eurlings decided to resign from his IOC roles on Jan. 5.
In a statement, Eurlings said "I greatly regret the course of events. With pain in my heart, I resign as IOC member, the most beautiful volunteer job in the world."
Now, the Netherlands are without an IOC member for the first time in 120 years. Dutch sport is already weighing its options as to who could replace Eurlings in the Olympic governing body.
"As long as it is not about the person, but about what he or she stands for," said Dutch NOC President Andre Bolhuis according to local media. "Esther Vergeer, Pieter van den Hoogenband, that could be options."
Dutch speed skating Olympian Erban Wennemars is reportedly satisfied with Eurlings decision to resign.
"But it is far too late," Wennemars said according to Dutch media. "The damage has only increased. It is so stupid and bad that so much time has passed. As an IOC member you have an exemplary role."
The IOC has accepted Eurlings’ resignation immediately, albeit regrettably.
"We understand that Camiel Eurlings has taken the decision to step down as an IOC-Member, and accept with regret his resignation which will be formally presented to the IOC EB," an IOC spokesperson said in a statement.
Eurlings became an IOC member in 2013 and in 2015 was appointed as chairman of the Communications Commission by President Thomas Bach.
"We thank him for his contribution, amongst others as Chairman of the IOC Communications Commission," an IOC spokesperson said. "And as a strong advocate behind the reforms of the IOC, making it easier for small nations to organize Olympic Games.
"Although we regret his decision, which is a personal one, we respect the step taken in the interests of the IOC, of the Olympic Movement, and of all involved."
Written by Kevin Nutley
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