He led the PKOl from 2010 to 2023, playing a crucial role in advancing Polish sports on the international stage.
In addition to his PKOl presidency, Kraśnicki led the Polish Handball Association from 2006 to 2021, during which Poland’s men’s handball team earned three World Championship medals.
He also contributed to global sports as a member of the European Olympic Committees and the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA).
"Andrzej Kraśnicki’s passing is a tremendous loss not only for Polish sport but also for the global Olympic movement," the PKOl said in a statement.
A strong proponent of international collaboration, Kraśnicki helped Polish officials gain positions in key organizations like the International Biathlon Union and the International Handball Federation.
He was also active in cultural diplomacy, promoting Polish heritage through sports and the arts.
Honuored with numerous awards, including the Grand Cross of the Order of Polonia Restituta, Kraśnicki was widely respected for his dedication and vision.
Born in 1949 in Nidzica, he began his career as a national handball player, later becoming a coach, ski instructor and lifeguard.
(ał)
Source: PAP