Founding of the International Olympic Committee
Also called: IOC, Sorbonne Congress
An international congress at the Sorbonne in Paris, called at Coubertin’s urging, resolved to revive the Olympic Games and founded the International Olympic Committee, choosing Athens for the first Games in 1896.
Albert Meyer · Public domain · Source
After France’s defeat in the Franco-Prussian War (1870–1871), the French educator Pierre de Coubertin took an interest in physical education to toughen French youth. Inspired by sport in English public schools and by the excavations at Olympia, he argued for reviving the ancient Olympics as an international competition bringing together young people from many countries.
The international congress on sport held at the Sorbonne from 16 to 23 June 1894 agreed to hold modern Olympic Games every four years and, on its last day, 23 June, founded the International Olympic Committee (IOC). Its first president was the Greek Demetrios Vikelas, and Athens was chosen for the first Games in 1896. The principle that only amateurs could compete was also laid down. 23 June is now celebrated as Olympic Day.
