Zhukov is the favourite to replace Leonid Tyagachev, who resigned last month following Russia's poor performance at the Olympics in Vancouver, where they finished only 11th in the overall medals table with 15 medals, their worst performance since the break-up of the Soviet Union.

Vitaly Smirnov, a member of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and the honorary President of the ROC, led the calls for Zhukov to be appointed.

He said: "It's very good news.

"We need an authoritative person who is known by the world community.

"Zhukov is that kind of person.

"Zhukov has become a well-known and respected figure in international sporting circles.

"He attended the presentation of Sochi in Russia's bid to host the Winter Olympic Games in 2014 [in Guatemala City in 2007], and repeatedly spoke at sessions of the International Olympic Committee, and the Olympic Congress.

"This man is well versed in sports, and has no need to win prestige in the international arena."

The Harvard University-educated Zhukov, 53, is a former economist who has been a Deputy Prime Minister since 2004.

He is currently head of the Russian Chess Federation and chairman of the Sochi 2014 Supervisory Board, who are overseeing preparations for the first Winter Olympics and Paralympics to be staged in Russia.

Shamil Tarpishchev, another of Russia's IOC members, also backed Zhukov's proposed appointment.

He said: "I think nominating Alexander Zhukov for ROC president would be the right decision.

"It is important now that our sports have well functioning interaction between legislative groundwork and public sport organisations.

"At this stage, Zhukov's knowledge as statesman and his experience in this field are very important."

The election is due to take place on May 20 and Zhukov has said that he would be prepared to take on the role.

He said: "It's a big honour for me so of course, I would agree."

The deadline for candidates to declare themselves is April 19.

Among those who are being touted as possible candidates is former swimmer Alexander Popov, a four-time Olympic gold medallist.

Contact the writer of this story at [email protected]


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