Iranian badminton player Soraya Aghaeihajiagha authored a significant new chapter for the sport as she was elected Member of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) at the 145th IOC Session in Milan on 4 February 2026.
The IOC Session, held just days before the Milano Cortina Olympic Winter Games 2026, saw the re-election of IOC Vice-President Juan Antonio Samaranch, besides the election of three new Executive Board members. Haji Agha’s election marks a special moment for badminton and for Iranian sport.
Haji Agha is widely recognised for her pioneering role on the court. She became the first female badminton player from Iran to compete at the Olympic Games at Tokyo 2020, where her presence inspired athletes and fans across the region. Beyond her competitive achievements, she has also contributed as a national coach and served on the Iranian National Olympic Committee’s Athletes’ Commission.
In December 2025, Haji Agha was appointed by IOC President Kirsty Coventry as one of five new members of the IOC Athletes’ Commission, a body that ensures athletes’ perspectives are represented within the Olympic Movement.
Her role on the IOC Athletes’ Commission complements her new position as an IOC Member, where she will help shape policy and advocate for athletes’ interests worldwide. As an IOC Member, Haji Agha will take part in Sessions and contribute to decision-making on key issues affecting sport globally.
Her dual appointment reflects not only her sporting excellence but also her leadership and commitment to the values of the Olympic Movement
Soraya Aghaei Haji Agha competed at the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games.
BWF Newsletter
