Sochi 2014’s ‘human’ legacy set to come to life

Following the success of the country’s first Olympic Winter Games, Russia is now set to host several other major sporting events, including the inaugural Russian Formula One Grand Prix in October, the 2016 FIH Ice Hockey World Championships, the 2017 FIBT Bob & Skeleton World Championships and the 2018 FIFA World Cup.

At the heart of these events will be many of the people who worked tirelessly to ensure the success of Sochi 2014, with the experience and skills they gained during preparations for the Winter Games set to benefit these and other major events.

Sochi 2014 also led to the establishment of the Russian International Olympic University (RIOU), which opened in Sochi earlier this year to train the next generation of sports management professionals.

Topics studied include venue management, event management, media management, governance and sport diplomacy, and talent management, with graduates from the RIOU set to become highly qualified specialists in the international sport industry – both in Russia and around the world.

The first intake of students have already been able to participate in a unique observation programme during Sochi 2014, allowing them to assess in detail the complex logistical operations behind the organisation of the Winter Games.

Experiences like these, and others gained by Sochi 2014 staff and volunteers, will help create a significant human legacy from the Games.

IOC President Thomas Bach, who visited the RIOU before the Games, is also convinced by the legacy it will leave.

“There will be many lasting legacies from Sochi 2014, including the RIOU, which is committed to producing graduates of the highest calibre to work in the world of sport,” said President Bach. “The Olympic Movement as a whole will benefit from the establishment of the university, as, of course, will Russian sport.”