Everyone in the European Athletics family would like to wish President Svein Arne Hansen a happy birthday after he turned 74 on Wednesday (6).
Svein Arne is currently resident in an Oslo hospital after suffering a stroke on evening of Sunday 15 March and, in addition to the birthday greetings being sent to him from around the world, European Athletics have sent their best wishes for his speedy recovery.
“Unfortunately, my father is still in hospital and quite ill. Visits are restricted to family members but I know he will appreciate all the kind thoughts and will be very touched that so many people have remembered it is his birthday,” said his son Philip Hansen.
“Many people have been asking about his health. Very simply, complications occurred about a month ago around the time we were initially expecting him to leave hospital and start his rehabilitation after the stroke. However, he is a fighter and working hard to get back to better health so he can finally leave the hospital and begin his rehabilitation.
“I can’t put a date on when those two things may occur but having so many people remember it’s his birthday will certainly boost his morale. This year, his birthday will be celebrated in a very quiet and private fashion but hopefully 2021 will see a more extravagant birthday party,” added his son.
Svein Arne recently celebrated five years in office as the European Athletics President having been first elected to the position in 2015 and then re-elected unopposed at the 2019 Congress in Prague.