At the 28th General Assembly of the Ethiopian Athletics Federation, a pivotal election was held to determine the federation’s president for the next four years.
Sileshi Sihine, a renowned former long-distance runner and Olympic silver medalist, was elected as president, representing the Oromia region. His appointment marks a new era for Ethiopian athletics, as an athlete with firsthand experience steps into leadership to guide the nation’s sporting future.
Sihine will be taking over from legendary athlete Derartu Tulu, who managed the Ethiopian Athletics Federation during a challenging period. Under Tulu’s tenure, Ethiopia’s performance at the Paris Olympics was deeply disappointing, marking one of the worst results in the nation’s history of Olympic participation. The lackluster performance has been a key point of criticism, amplifying calls for reform and revitalization within the federation.
Sihine’s leadership is expected to usher in a renewed focus on athlete development, strategic planning, and improved performance on the global stage. With his reputation for discipline and excellence, many are hopeful that he can restore Ethiopia’s dominance in athletics and rebuild the federation’s stature.
This transition signals a fresh start for Ethiopian athletics, as Sihine prepares to tackle the challenges ahead and elevate the country’s standing in international competitions.
