Jacques Rogge, who became president of the International Olympic Committee in 2001, when the organization was still reeling from an ethics scandal, and helped restore stability during his 12 years in charge while taking a strong stand against doping, has died. He was 79.
The committee announced his death in a statement on Sunday. It did not say where he died or specify the date or cause, though Dr. Rogge had been in declining health.
Dr. Rogge was an Olympian himself, having competed for Belgium in sailing at the 1968, 1972 and 1976 Games. He was also a skilled rugby player when younger and was a member of the Belgian national team.