Chinese athletes and sports officials, as well as members of the public, gathered at the hour-long funeral to bid farewell to He, who passed away at a hospital in Beijing last week.

Notable attendees from the IOC included President Thomas Bach's wife Claudia, Executive Board member C K Wu, member Timothy Fok and former member Kevan Gosper.

Speaking on behalf of Bach, Fok extended his deepest condolences to He's family and relatives prior to the memorial.

Following news of He's death last Sunday (January 4), Bach had called for the Olympic flag to be flown half-mast for three days in tribute.

The IOC flag was flown at half-mast for three days in a tribute to He Zhenliang ©Getty Images



"Mr He was a man of culture and art," Bach said at the time.

"He was a true advocate of the social values of sport and of our movement.

"He also helped our movement better understand his country, its people and outstanding culture.

"The Olympic Movement has lost one of its most fervent ambassadors."

Considered "Mr Olympics" in his native country, He was regarded as the most influential Chinese sporting administrator in history and a key bridge connecting Chinese sport with the rest of the world.

He remained an IOC honorary member until his death.

He was elected to the IOC in 1981 and became vice-president in 1989, remaining in the position until 1993.

He was best known for his role in helping Beijing land the 2008 Olympic and Paralympic Games after the city unsuccessfully bid for the 2000 Games and was part of the presentation team at the IOC session in Moscow in 2001 where Beijing was awarded the hosting rights.

The influential administrator also served on Beijing 2008's Executive Board.

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