FISU mourns passing of FISU Emeritus Honorary member Alf Lazer

The International University Sports Federation is deeply saddened to hear about the passing of Mr. Alf Lazer, who departed this life peacefully on 3 February, 2026, at the great age of 100 years old.

The Australian FISU Emeritus Honorary member passed away peacefully in his retirement home in Melbourne on Tuesday 3 February.

“With Alf Lazer, we have lost a loyal and long-standing member of the FISU family, a modest, serving man who represented and lived following the original values of sport like no other”, said FISU President Leonz Eder. “Even in an ever-changing and fast-paced world, he remained committed to the unifying power of university sport with togetherness and mutual support, both at national and global level. I also have fond memories of his many votes in EC meetings, at FISU forums, and in direct contact with student-athletes. Alf Lazer was a man of the “old school” who did not enter into discussions with preconceived opinions and was also a good listener. In this sense, he would still be a great asset to us today.”

An outstanding devotion to sports

Alf Lazer’s half-century journey at FISU has been an essential part of his lifelong commitment to university sport. His first acquaintance with the International University Sports Federation dates to 1973, when he travelled to his first Universiade in Moscow as the Australian team official. Ten years after, his remarkable experience, leadership qualities and enthusiasm aided him in being elected to FISU Executive Committee as the auditor (1983-1991) and assessor (1991-1999). In addition to his involvement in the EC, he also chaired the Technical Committee for squash (2000-2007), and was a member of the Brisbane 1987 Bidding Committee.

For his outstanding devotion to sports, Alf Lazer received a Gold Medal from the University of Melbourne, and then the Order of Australia from the Federal Government in 1985. In 2013, FISU recompensed Alf Lazer with Jean Petitjean Award for outstanding services to the FISU community. In 2014 he was awarded World Fair Play Diploma by the International Fair Play Committee.

A celebration of Alf’s life will be held on 18 February 2026 at the University of Melbourne Main oval pavilion.

FISU would like to send to his family and friends our heartfelt condolences. Our thoughts are with you all and we hope your beautiful memories can bring you comfort during these difficult times. Alf Lazer will be deeply missed.