U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee Awards CEO Sarah Hirshland Contract Extension

Sarah Hirshland will be given a five-year contract extension to stay as chief executive officer for the United States Olympic and Paralympic Committee, The Associated Press reported on Wednesday evening.

The AP’s report said in a letter to the USOPC community, chairman Gene Sykes said Hirshland’s “accountability, transparency, and inclusivity has transformed our organization.”

“Notably, she has prioritized athlete protection, rights, and support, ensuring a safe and empowering environment for all,” Sykes wrote.

Hirshland was hired as CEO in July 2018 after being chief commercial officer for the United States Golf Association. She is the 12th CEO in USOPC history and its second permanent female CEO. Prior to joining the USGA in 2011, she served as senior vice-president for strategic business development at Wasserman Media Group (now Wasserman) alongside Casey Wasserman, who chairs the LA 2028 Olympic effort.

The LA28 Games are one of two Games headed to the United States over the next decade with the 2034 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games coming to Salt Lake City, with official approval from the International Olympic Committee coming this summer in Paris at its annual Session.

According to the USOPC’s most recent financial disclosures, Hirshland made $1.1 million in “reportable compensation” in 2022. Hirshland and the USOPC are in the final stages of formulating the team that will be in less than a month head to Paris for the 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Summer Games.

“The excitement and anticipation for the Paris Games continues to grow with each passing day,” Hirshland said during a media conference call last week. “Team USA is ready for these games. Our entire team, along with our partner NGBs, we’re busy with final qualifications and preparations and we’re excited and eager for the games to begin.”