Four-time Olympian and 2012 men’s 10m Air Rifle bronze medalist, Gagan Narang, has been appointed to replace Mary Kom as India's Chef-de-Mission for the 2024 Olympics, as confirmed by the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) on Monday, July 8. Additionally, PV Sindhu has been confirmed as the female flagbearer for the Olympics.
Mary Kom resigned from her position as Chef-de-Mission in April due to personal reasons, leading to Narang's selection as her replacement. The decision was announced by IOA President PT Usha, who stated that Narang was an ideal replacement for Kom. Usha also announced that PV Sindhu would serve as the female flagbearer alongside Table Tennis star Sharath Kamal during the opening ceremony.
"I was seeking an Olympic medalist to lead our contingent, and my young colleague, Gagan Narang, is a fitting replacement for Mary Kom," stated IOA President PT Usha in a press release.
"I am also delighted to announce that PV Sindhu, India's only woman to win two Olympic medals, will be the female flagbearer alongside Table Tennis ace A. Sharath Kamal during the opening ceremony," Usha added.
Initially, Narang was chosen as the deputy Chef-de-Mission for the games, but he has now been elevated to the primary role.
Usha also expressed her confidence in the Indian athletes, believing they will deliver outstanding results for the nation in Paris.
"I am confident that our athletes are well-prepared to achieve the best results for India in the Paris 2024 Olympic Games," she said.
Gagan Narang, four-time Olympian and 2012 Olympic Games men’s 10m Air Rifle bronze medalist, has been chosen to replace MC Mary Kom as the Chef-de-Mission of the Indian contingent to compete in the Paris 2024 Olympic Games beginning on July 26. pic.twitter.com/CECURoskB3 — ANI (@ANI) July 8, 2024
Mary Kom explained her reasons for stepping down, citing personal challenges that have hindered her ability to serve in the role.
"I considered it an honour to serve my country in every possible way and was mentally prepared for it. However, I regret to inform you that I will not be able to uphold the prestigious responsibility conferred on me as Chef-de-Mission for the Paris Olympics 2024 due to problems that have partially incapacitated me," Kom stated.
The Paris Olympics are scheduled to begin on July 26 and will continue until August 11.
