Kirsty Coventry has made history as the first woman elected president of the International Olympic Committee (IOC). The 41-year-old Zimbabwean, Africa’s most decorated Olympian, secured a decisive victory at the 144th IOC Session in Greece, receiving 49 votes to defeat IOC vice-president Juan Antonio Samaranch Jr and World Athletics president Sebastian Coe.
Coventry, a seven-time Olympic medallist in swimming, will serve an eight-year term, succeeding Thomas Bach, who will step down in June after 12 years at the helm. Her election marks a new era for the IOC, as she becomes both its first African and first female leader.
“The young girl who first started swimming in Zimbabwe all those years ago could never have dreamt of this moment,” she said. “Glass ceilings have been shattered today, and I am fully aware of my responsibilities as a role model.”
Her appointment comes at a crucial time for the Olympic movement, with the 2028 Games in Los Angeles on the horizon. Coventry has pledged to drive innovation and uphold the Olympic values of excellence, respect, and friendship. Bach, who presided over three Summer and three Winter Games, welcomed her appointment, saying, “The future for our Olympic Movement is bright.”
However, Coventry’s presidency begins amid complex challenges. She has already addressed the ongoing debate surrounding gender eligibility in sports, suggesting the IOC should take a leading role in shaping policies. “The overarching principle must be to protect the female category,” she stated, emphasizing the need for collaboration between international federations.
Her tenure will also coincide with Donald Trump’s presidency, raising potential political tensions ahead of the Los Angeles Games. Trump has made headlines with policies on gender in sports, but Coventry stressed the importance of communication. “The new IOC president will need to remind hosts of their commitments, values, and expectations,” she said.
With her deep Olympic experience and a vision for modernization, Coventry’s leadership signals a transformative chapter for the IOC. As the world looks ahead to future Games, all eyes will be on how she navigates the challenges and opportunities that come with her historic appointment.
