Jacques Rogge joins the British knighthood for London Olympics success

An honour normally only bestowed on British nationals was given to one of Belgium’s own yesterday. Jacques Rogge, the former International Olympic Committee President, received an honorary knighthood at London’s Buckingham Palace for his years helming the post as the IOC chief, but especially for his work on the London 2012 Olympic Games.

Rogge received the honour from Her Royal Highness Princess Anne, the daughter of Queen Elizabeth II and a member of the International Olympic Committee, as well as a former Olympian, competing in the 1976 Games in Montreal in the horse-riding event.  

Rogge was given the Knight Commander of the Order of St. Michael and St. George, an honour presented by the Royal Palace for services deemed important to foreign affairs.

Born in Ghent, Rogge competed in yachting at the 1968, 1972, and 1976 Olympics before moving onto a career as an orthopaedic surgeon. In 2001, he became the head of the IOC after serving on its board.