Cyril Linette has officially been appointed as the Director-General of the Organizing Committee for the French Alps 2030 Olympic and Paralympic Games (COJOP) on Thursday, April 17, 2025. This much-anticipated decision comes after a series of delays spanning over ten days, during which the nomination faced scrutiny and was postponed multiple times. Initially set for April 7, the announcement was deferred once more to coincide with the inauguration of the Société de livraison des ouvrages olympiques in Marseille, adding to the suspense surrounding Linette's appointment.
The final decision was reached during a board meeting held in Lyon, where the Executive Board validated Linette's nomination, proposed by COJOP President Edgar Grospiron. Grospiron expressed his confidence in Linette, describing him as “an innovative, structuring, and reforming leader” who brings a clear vision for value creation, budget management, team performance, and content distribution.
At 54 years old, Linette boasts an impressive background that intertwines sports, media, and business. His career began in journalism, and he has held significant positions such as the Head of the Sports Division at Canal+ and Director-General of the sports daily L'Équipe. Most recently, he served as the President-Director General of Pari Mutuel Urbain (PMU), the French horse racing betting operator. His diverse experience equips him with a unique perspective on the operational, legal, and financial dimensions of the upcoming Olympic and Paralympic Games.
Linette's role as Director-General will involve overseeing the operational aspects of COJOP, ensuring the organization runs smoothly and efficiently. He is tasked with installing an agile organization, structuring teams around solid governance, and facilitating coordination among various stakeholders involved in the project. This responsibility is critical as the organizing committee works towards making the 2030 Games a significant event that not only highlights athletic prowess but also serves as a platform for emotional and engaging content.
The journey to Linette's appointment has not been without its challenges. Initially, the nomination was met with hesitance from members of the Club des Cinq, a group overseeing the Alpes 2030 project, which includes representatives from the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur and Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes regions, the Olympic and Paralympic committees, and the Ministry of Sports. They requested additional time to evaluate Linette's capabilities to lead the committee. This led to further delays, as the committee aimed to ensure that the chosen candidate would be the right fit for such a critical position.
Grospiron, who became president of the organizing committee on February 18, 2025, emphasized the importance of having a “true leader” at Linette's helm, someone who could make decisive choices and inspire confidence among the team. He noted, “The Games today are as much a sporting event as a huge platform for emotionally powerful content.” This reflects a modern understanding of the Olympics, where the spectacle extends beyond athletic competition to encompass a broader narrative that resonates with audiences worldwide.
Linette's extensive background in both sports and media positions him well to navigate the complexities of the upcoming Games. His previous stints have shown that he can handle high-pressure environments and make impactful decisions. For instance, during his tenure at Canal+, he was praised for his visionary approach and innovative ideas, which included launching programs that changed the landscape of sports broadcasting in France.
However, Linette's career has not been without setbacks. In September 2024, he ran for the presidency of the Ligue de football professionnel (LFP) but was defeated by Vincent Labrune. This defeat was a significant moment in his career, but it also showcased his determination to remain involved in the sports industry. Following his loss, Linette quickly pivoted, founding a consulting firm and focusing on sustainable energy initiatives with the Groupe Verlaine, a leader in photovoltaic panels in France.
The appointment of Linette as Director-General is seen as a pragmatic and ambitious step for the COJOP. Grospiron and Linette are expected to work closely together, mobilizing their combined expertise to ensure that the 2030 Games not only meet but exceed expectations. Their partnership is built on a shared vision of creating a successful event that aligns with environmental sustainability and showcases the best of French sports.
As the organizing committee gears up for the monumental task ahead, Linette’s leadership will be pivotal in shaping the direction of the Games. The collaboration between him and Grospiron is anticipated to foster a strong organizational structure that can adapt to the challenges that lie ahead.
In conclusion, with Cyril Linette now officially at the helm as Director-General, the French Alps 2030 Olympic and Paralympic Games are poised to enter a new phase of development. His appointment is expected to bring a fresh perspective and a wealth of experience that will be essential in navigating the complexities of organizing a major international sporting event. The excitement is building as stakeholders eagerly await the next steps in what promises to be a landmark occasion for France and the Olympic movement.
