Buckner to replace retiring Sparkes as CEO of British Swimming

British Triathlon Federation chief executive Jack Buckner is moving on to become CEO of British Swimming.

Buckner will replace retiring chief executive David Sparkes in the coming months to guide the national governing body towards the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games.

“The role presents a great opportunities and challenges and I’m excited to be part of this high-performing Olympic and Paralympic sport,” said Buckner.

British Swimming is just coming off the back of its most successful Olympic and Paralympic campaigns in Rio 2016, with nine and 47 medals won respectively.

As a result, the organisation has had its Tokyo cycle funding increased to £21.7m (US$28.2m, €25.1m), up from the £20.8m (US$27m, €24m) it received to prepare for Rio.

Maurice Watkins, chair of British Swimming, said the organisation was “very pleased” to welcome Buckner, and commended Sparkes on his 23 years of service to the national governing body.

Sparkes added: “I have enjoyed my time with British Swimming and we have seen many changes and great performances.

“I am sure under Jack’s leadership we will see British Swimming move on to even greater success.”