Olegario Vázquez Raña, a distinguished figure in sports, business, and public service, has passed away at 89. Vázquez Raña’s legacy spans four Olympic appearances, leadership in international sports administration, and a successful career as a visionary entrepreneur.
Born on December 10, 1935, in Mexico, Vázquez Raña competed in four Olympic Games—Tokyo 1964, Mexico City 1968, Munich 1972, and Montreal 1976—as a shooting athlete. His sportsmanship reached its peak in 1975 when he broke his own world record in Men’s 10m Air Rifle at the Pan American Games in Mexico, showcasing his exceptional skill and determination.
From 1995 to 2015, Vázquez Raña served as a member of the International Olympic Committee (IOC), becoming an Honorary Member in 2016. He played a pivotal role in several IOC commissions, including Olympic Solidarity, Marketing, and the Olympic Channel, while tirelessly promoting the sport of shooting.
IOC President Thomas Bach expressed his condolences, stating, “Olegario Vázquez Raña dedicated his life to sport, as an athlete, an administrator, and a global advocate. He modernized shooting and defended Olympic values with unwavering passion. His legacy will always be remembered.”
A visionary businessman, Vázquez Raña founded Grupo Empresarial Ángeles, a leading conglomerate with diverse interests in healthcare, tourism, finance, and media. He also led Grupo Imagen, which includes the Excelsior newspaper, a radio network, and Cadena Tres television network. His work extended to public service as President of the Mexican Red Cross from 2001 to 2006.
“The International Shooting Sport Federation (ISSF) extends its heartfelt condolences to the family and loved ones of former ISSF President Olegario Vázquez Raña following his passing. His legacy and contributions to shooting sport will always be remembered, including his service as the longest-serving President in our organisation’s history,” said the ISSF
Abhinav Bindra, the 2008 Beijing Olympic gold medalist, also shared his sorrow on his X handle, saying: “It is with deep sadness that I mourn the passing of Mr. Olegario Vázquez Raña, a towering figure in the world of sport and a true champion of shooting. As Life President of the ISSF, his dedication, vision, and leadership played a pivotal role in shaping and elevating the sport globally. His contributions have left an enduring legacy that will continue to inspire generations of athletes. My heartfelt condolences to his family and loved ones during this difficult time. His impact on the sporting world will never be forgotten. May he rest in peace.”
Vázquez Raña’s impact was recognized with numerous accolades, including the Olympic Order, Mexico’s National Sports Award, and international honors such as the Great Cross of Civil Merit (Spain) and the “Grande Médaille” from the City of Paris. In 2000, he was named Mexican Athlete of the 20th Century.
As a mark of respect, the Olympic flag will fly at half-mast for three days at Olympic House. Vázquez Raña’s contributions to sport, business, and society have left an enduring legacy, and his memory will live on as a symbol of dedication and leadership.