Monday May 04, 2026
Monday May 04, 2026
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Asanga Seneviratne (right) being congratulated by outgoing NOC SL President Suresh Subramaniam following the former’s victory on Saturday
Multiple sports personality Asanga Seneviratne on Saturday clinched the Presidency of the National Olympic Committee of Sri Lanka (NOC SL), beating the much hyped-up Shirantha Peiris and Jaswar Umar.
As the Weekend FT on Saturday described him as an underdog (https://www.ft.lk/sports/Battle-heats-up-between-Jaswar-and-Shirantha-for-NOCSL-Presidency/23-791117), Asanga secured 16 votes in a convincing victory. Umar came second with 11 votes and Peiris managed only two votes out of 28 voting associations of the NOC SL.
Asanga’s nomination was submitted by the Sri Lanka Amateur Baseball/Softball Association as its President. A former Thomian, Asanga has excelled in both rugby and cricket, representing CH & FC and CCC, respectively, while also previously serving as President of the Sri Lanka Rugby Football Union. He is also an entrepreneur and a top investor.
As NOC SL President until 2030, Asanga succeeds Suresh Subramaniam.
Prior to Saturday’s election, Pieris (nominated by National Shooting Sport Federation of Sri Lanka) and Umar (Football Federation of Sri Lanka) were seen as top contenders, whilst the duo also generated much media interest for their future visions for NOC SL if elected.
In the race for Vice President, Niloo Jayatilake emerged as the standout candidate, topping the poll with an impressive 18 votes. She was the only female contestant and her strong showing reflects growing recognition of women in sports administration.
The remaining Vice President positions were filled by Iqbal Isaac, Sarath Hewawitharana, and Preethi Perera, completing a diverse leadership group tasked with supporting the Committee’s future initiatives.
Rifdy Fahmy was re-elected Secretary General, ensuring continuity in one of the most crucial administrative roles within the NOC SL structure as the Committee looks ahead to upcoming international commitments.
