The new LEN Headquarters have been officially opened on Friday in Nyon, Switzerland, in the presence of FINA President Dr. Julio C. Maglione, LEN President Paolo Barelli and Philippe Leuba, Minister of the Department of Economy and Sports of the Canton Vaud.
The brand new LEN Office has opened its doors in the beautiful Swiss city of Nyon, becoming the 56th major sport governing body settling in the Canton of Vaud. After the Bureau’s decision to move the office to Switzerland – where LEN is registered as a legal entity –, the LEN Executive conducted a thorough search to find the proper place and Nyon offered fine conditions and a very convenient location.
The inauguration event was attended by FINA President Dr. Julio C. Maglione, who said he felt honoured to be present in such an important moment for the European Aquatic Family. In his speech Dr. Maglione underlined how important role LEN plays in the aquatics world. “Europe’s 52 nations and the value of their athletes make this continent a really important member of FINA” he said, adding: “We welcome LEN in Switzerland and, I’m sure that the close proximity with FINA shall strengthen our already great relationship.”
Philippe Leuba, Minister of the Department of Economy and Sports of the Canton Vaud was proud that LEN had joined the circle of the globe’s leading sport organisations, becoming the 56th governing body settling in the canton, besides, among others, the International Olympic Committee and FINA. “We were really excited by the opportunity that LEN chose us and our team was and are always available to provide you whatever is needed” the minister declared. He also enabled a joint agreement which shall ensure financial support for the newcomers, as a strong sign of the canton’s appreciation.
LEN President Paolo Barelli paid thanks for Dr. Maglione and Mr. Leuba for celebrating this special occasion together and was grateful for the Minister for his cooperation to secure the top floor for LEN in the brand new house and for his staff’s continuous assistance. Mr. Barelli praised the ever-great relationship with Dr. Maglione and FINA. He was also thankful for the previous generation of leaders in the LEN Family, the current members of the Bureau, the LEN Staff and all committee and commission members for their support which made possible to take this important step and set up a new headquarters in Nyon.
“Now we turned a new page, and after going all the way through decades via London, Rome and Luxembourg, finally we arrived home here, where the most important federations have their head offices, too” the LEN President said. “I’m really optimistic about our future as we shouldn’t forget: this office is not about walls, chairs and tables. It’s about the persons working here and it’s about the 52 member federations we are working for. LEN is about them, this makes our family strong and successful”, Mr. Barelli concluded.
Press release from LEN, photos courtesy of LEN/Giorgio Scala
