Swiss taekwondo founder René Bundeli dies aged 79. UN GENEVA

Grand Master René Bundeli, former member of the World Taekwondo Council and Honorary President of Swiss Taekwondo, has died at the age of 79.

Bundeli was a pioneer in introducing taekwondo to Switzerland, founding Swiss Taekwondo and serving as its president for over two decades, according to World Taekwondo. 

He was the only holder of the 9th Dan Kukkiwon in Switzerland and held prominent positions such as Chairman of the Games Committee for the 2008 Summer Olympics in Beijing and Chairman of the Referee Committee of World Taekwondo. 

Grand Master René Bundeli passionately taught and promoted taekwondo in various places around the world. "Our thoughts are with his family at this difficult time. Grand Master René Bundeli passionately taught and promoted taekwondo in various places around the world," reads the Swiss Taekwondo Facebook page. 

"For more than fifty years, he mentored numerous young people in his Dojang and throughout Switzerland. We will forever cherish the lessons we learned from him, his generous support and above all his invaluable friendship. May you rest in peace, Grand Master René Bundeli," the post concluded.