Shirantha Peries, a prominent figure in the business and sports administration sectors, has declared his intention to run for the presidency of the National Olympic Committee of Sri Lanka. This announcement was made during a meeting with sports association representatives on April 20 at the Cosmic venue within the Lotus Tower. Peries articulated a comprehensive agenda aimed at enhancing governance, fostering unity among federations, and improving Sri Lanka’s athletic performance globally.
Bringing over 40 years of professional expertise, Peries is the founder of the Mega Pharma Group of Companies, a leading pharmaceutical firm generating an annual revenue exceeding Rs. 6 billion. His career showcases a commitment to operational excellence, financial management, and the ability to establish and lead large organizations. He has obtained dual MBAs from institutions in the United Kingdom and the United States, further solidifying his qualifications in strategy and leadership.
“To me, effective leadership means creating an institution that operates with a unified mission, maintains transparency, and ensures accountability in its actions. Sri Lankan sports require systems that function equitably, consistently, and prioritize the well-being of athletes, federations, and the nation as a whole,” Peries stated.
In addition to his business ventures, Peries has played a vital role in enhancing Sri Lanka’s sports infrastructure and administration. He has made personal investments in upgrading shooting facilities in Nuwara Eliya, Katukurunda, and Payagala at the Clay Target Shooting Club of Colombo, elevating these venues to international standards and increasing access to the sport.
In 2015, he became the first civilian President of the National Shooting Sport Federation of Sri Lanka. Under his leadership, which extends until 2025, the federation has seen remarkable growth, with participation expanding from approximately 200 athletes to over 7,500 young individuals. Youth development has been a key focus, leading to national achievements among athletes under 16, who have earned medals in Asian competitions.
“It has become evident that when we prioritize structure, accessibility, and long-term development, positive outcomes naturally follow. I am confident that this disciplined and inclusive approach can enhance every sport in Sri Lanka and pave a better path for our athletes,” he emphasized.
Currently, Peries serves as the Vice President of the National Olympic Committee of Sri Lanka, while also holding roles in various international sports organizations, such as an Executive Member of the Asian Shooting Confederation and a Board Member within the International Shooting Sport Federation, where he contributes to developmental initiatives. Additionally, he is the Chairman of Lotus Tower, demonstrating his capabilities in managing large-scale national projects and collaborating with governmental entities.
Peries’ journey in sports began at the young age of 12 when he first engaged in air rifle shooting, inspired by his father. He later represented Sri Lanka in the SAF Shooting Games in 2000, where he earned a team silver medal and an individual bronze medal, providing him with valuable insights into the rigors of international competition.
While speaking to association members and the media at the event, Peries highlighted that Sri Lankan sports are at a pivotal juncture, necessitating improved systems, increased unity, and transparent governance. He asserted that the National Olympic Committee should function as a reliable, effective entity that fosters fair opportunities and supports performance across all sports.
His proposed agenda emphasizes the creation of a National Olympic Committee characterized by a unified mission, transparency in operations, and equitable opportunities. Key priorities include quarterly decision visibility, an open-book policy on funding and sponsorship, merit-based eligibility criteria, enhanced athlete protection measures, and structured development programs for athletes and coaches.
Additionally, he suggested establishing a formal feedback mechanism at Olympic House, enhancing accountability through well-defined responsibilities, and fostering closer collaboration with the Ministry of Sports and the Government of Sri Lanka.
“Sri Lankan sports are not short of talent. What is needed is a more robust and accountable system that unites individuals, champions excellence, and ensures every athlete has a fair opportunity to advance,” Peries remarked. “My aim is to build a National Olympic Committee that brings together stakeholders, operates with integrity, and achieves results that the sporting community and the nation can genuinely support.”
With a unique blend of experience as a business leader, sports administrator, and national athlete, Shirantha Peries has positioned himself as a candidate dedicated to practical results, institutional resilience, and lasting impact.
