Hashimy, a businessman who owns one of the country’s most popular television channels 1TV, was elected to serve a four-year term last May at an Extraordinary Session in Afghanistan’s capital city Kabul.

Having replaced Mohammad Zaher Aghbar in the role, the 35-year-old announced his ambition to create a world-class National Olympic Committee, with a focus on making the organisation more democratic and increasing opportunities for women to participate in sport.

Despite opposition, Hashimy introduced several changes to make the organisation independent from the country’s Government, while he was forced to finance athletes largely out of his own pocket due to a lack of funding elsewhere.

Hashimy has revealed he has taken the decision to tender his resignation after believing he will not be able to take A-NOC any further forward, but he has pledged to continue to help providing financial assistance.

“I'm leaving the position because I can't do any more,” he told insidethegames.

“I will continue to provide financial support for both the NOC and athletes.

“I wish the new management team all the best in the future."

His replacement as President will be tasked with leading the organisation and its athletes towards the Rio 2016 Olympics.

The country will hope to secure a third Olympic medal after taekwondo player Rohullah Nikpai won bronze at both Beijing 2008 and London 2012.

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