Our Gili Lustig – Thank you for three decades of inspiration and leadership!
This morning, the CEO of the Israeli Olympic Committee, Gili Lustig, announced that after 30 years of contribution and professional leadership, and following the peak games in Paris 2024, he will retire in Passover 2026 at the age of 68.
Yael Arad: “Gili is a unicorn of excellence, diligence, and professionalism, and I had the privilege of working alongside him in so many areas of Israeli sports. Gili is the embodiment of a love for competitive sports, attention to detail, values, and leadership. Just seeing the parade of sports figures passing by his office every day – saying hello, bringing a cake (poppy seed), consulting with him or pouring out their hearts – is to understand how beloved the man is and what an open heart he has for everyone.
On behalf of Israeli sport, I would like to thank you for your outstanding contribution over four decades, culminating in successes at the Paris Olympic Games – successes that are not measured “only” in medals.
In six months, Gili will leave his position but not Israeli sports, and he will continue to accompany us in this cycle to ensure that the vast knowledge he has accumulated is preserved in the organizational memory of the Olympic Committee for the benefit of future generations.”
Gili Lustig: “This is a very exciting day for me, summarizing over 30 years of work in various roles in Israeli sports. Each role brought its own unique challenges and exciting moments that I learned from and carried forward.
Today I am announcing my retirement and making way for the younger generation, who I am confident will bring new shades and colors to both the role and the leadership of Olympic sports in Israel. I am doing this wholeheartedly, after a long and challenging period filled with significant experiences and achievements.
Out of professional responsibility, I chose to take this step two and a half years before the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games, in order to allow for optimal preparation.
The summary stage will come later, but even now I want to sincerely thank all the partners on this journey. In my opinion, sport is a central lever that influences many areas of life. I am proud that over the years, alongside preparations for Olympic missions, we have also worked to promote values, contribute to the community, and deepen social involvement.”