Sports facilities pioneer Henrik Brandt has resigned from the Danish Institute for Sports Studies (Idan) after helping to set up the organisation more than a decade ago.
Brandt will leave in May, more than 13 years after joining Idan, which was created by the Danish Ministry of Culture to initiate and develop a broad range of social science research projects in the field of sports.
According to an Idan statement, Brandt’s resignation is linked to the relocation of the main office from Copenhagen to Aarhus.
Idan comprises of the Danish Institute for Non-formal Education (Vifo) and Play the Game, which promotes democracy, transparency and freedom of expression within the international sports community.
“I am leaving the institute with a great personal satisfaction and pride with the results that we have accomplished locally, nationally and internationally since the establishment of the institute more than 13 years ago,” Brandt said.
“In my opinion, we have managed to create a professionally inspiring and innovative environment on the highest level for very modest means.
“I am certain that the Danish Institute for Sports Studies will keep being a voucher for integrity, professionalism, relevance and curiosity when it comes to informing about and discussing the biggest challenges within non-formal education and sport.”
Idan said it accepted the resignation “with regret”.
”Henrik H. Brandt has, in cooperation with his dedicated and competent staff, been decisive in building up an institute that has been a characteristic and powerful addition to the sports political environment, nationally as well as internationally,” said Johs Poulsen, chairman of the board of Idan.
Ian Nuttall, TheStadiumBusiness founder who worked with Brandt on the White Elephant Index, said: “Throughout his tenure at Idan, Henrik Brandt has done so much to challenge misinformation and mismanagement in the operation of sports facilities – and to encourage a more entrepreneurial culture in sports organisations.
“It was a pleasure to work with him on the White Elephant Index – which highlighted the wasted resources out into glory stadia for major events…
“Never scared of asking the difficult question, he often unearthed the uncomfortable truth – but always in a very understated, charming and very Danish way.
“I hope he doesn’t stray too far from the sports and health sector. In this era of political ‘group think’ we need more Henriks.”
Image: Idan
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