At the invitation of the New York Athletic Club (NYAC), Prof. Stephan Wassong delivered a lecture at the prestigious institution on 3 June, focusing on Pierre de Coubertin’s visits to the NYAC in 1889 and 1893, as well as on the origins and development of the Olympic Movement. The lecture concluded with reflections on the Olympic Games of Los Angeles 1932, 1984, and the forthcoming Games of 2028.

Following the lecture, a panel discussion provided an opportunity to explore the historical and contemporary significance of the Olympic Movement. In his capacity as Director of the Olympic Studies Centre and President of the International Pierre de Coubertin Committee (IPCC), Prof. Wassong presented the traditional bust of Pierre de Coubertin to James Hirschlein, Chairman of the NYAC, and Antony La Sala, Athletic Chairman of the NYAC.

The NYAC is among the most distinguished and historic sports clubs in the United States. Since the first modern Olympic Games in Athens in 1896, its members have achieved remarkable success in Olympic competition, particularly in athletics, swimming, water polo, and fencing. To date, 321 NYAC athletes have won Olympic gold, silver, and bronze medals. The club has also earned 11 medals at the Paralympic Games.

The Coubertin bust is expected to be displayed prominently within the NYAC’s exhibition spaces, possibly even in its Hall of Fame. This symbolic gesture establishes a lasting connection between the NYAC and the IPCC. For the IPCC, it represents another important and encouraging step in strengthening its visibility and cooperation with prestigious national and international organisations within the world of sport and the Olympic Movement.