Electric cars: Romania’s eco-friendly reward for Olympic medalists

Romanian gymnast Ana Maria Barbosu is given an Olympic bronze medal by Mihai Covaliu the president of Romanian Olympic Comitee. GETTY IMAGES

A total of 22 cars were gifted, courtesy of Romanian magnate Ion Tiriac, who, just as with his statements, hasn’t held back when it comes to spreading joy to the athletes of his country. In addition to the vehicles, the athletes also received a special gold medal and a life insurance policy.

Romania earned nine medals (three gold, four silver, and two bronze), placing 23rd in the overall Olympic standings, proving to be a major force in rowing, with over half (five) of its medals coming from that discipline. Swimmer David Popovici also brought many smiles to the faces of the 19 million Romanians cheering from home.

At a ceremony celebrating the return of the Romanian champions, Ion Tiriac presented a valuable prize to the 16 Romanian athletes who excelled in Paris, contributing to the country’s Olympic medal tally. The highlight of the prize was electric Hyundai Ioniq 5 cars, each valued around €50,000.

Those who won two medals each received two cars as a bonus for their outstanding performance. In a gesture of complete generosity, gymnast Sabrina Voinea was also awarded, despite finishing just off the podium in a commendable fourth place. With 22 cars distributed, the total value of Tiriac’s gesture through the Tiriac Foundation approaches nearly €1 million. The winners also received a special 14-carat gold medal and a life insurance policy from one of Tiriac’s companies, ensuring the athletes’ security.

“He deserves it because he worked for four years for that result, Mr. Popovici,” Tiriac stated in his speech during the event. “It is a great effort to work like a slave to achieve your goals. I hope we have a bright future ahead,” concluded the magnate, addressing swimmer David Popovici, who won a gold and a bronze in Paris.

Feliciano Lopez and Ion Tiriac enjoying a game of the Mutua Madrid Open. GETTY IMAGES
Feliciano Lopez and Ion Tiriac enjoying a game of the Mutua Madrid Open. GETTY IMAGES

The 85-year-old former athlete also emphasized the need for the Romanian state to continue supporting and investing in sports. “I had the honor of meeting with the Prime Minister yesterday, and he promised to invest in infrastructure and boost sports. I believe he will do it,” Tiriac declared.

Ion Tiriac, who retired from professional tennis in the 1970s, transitioned to sports consulting and management with high-profile clients like Marat Safin and Boris Becker. His leadership, experience, and spontaneous character contributed to their success.

The businessman rapidly amassed a fortune by the turn of the millennium, and today Forbes recognises him as a billionaire with a net worth exceeding 2 billion dollars, making him the only billionaire in Romania and one of the 800 richest people in the world. The former tennis player now oversees a vast conglomerate that includes Tiriac Holdings, TiriacAIR, HVB Tiriac Bank, and more.



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