By Kirsty Coventry, has been elected as the new president of the International Olympic Committee (IOC). At 41, she becomes the first woman, the first African, and the youngest person to ever hold the position.
Coventry won the election against six other candidates, including HRH Prince Feisal Al Hussein, David Lappartient, and Lord Sebastian Coe, who was widely considered the favorite. She secured an absolute majority in the first round of voting, replacing Germany’s Thomas Bach, who had led the IOC since 2013.
A two-time Olympic gold medalist, Coventry is Zimbabwe’s most decorated athlete, winning seven of the country’s eight Olympic medals. Already a member of the IOC executive board, she now assumes leadership of the global sporting body for an eight-year term.
Following her victory, Coventry expressed gratitude, saying, “I am incredibly honored and excited to be elected as President of the International Olympic Committee! I want to sincerely thank my fellow members for their trust and support.” She also highlighted the historic significance of her election, stating, “Glass ceilings have been shattered today.”
Outgoing president Thomas Bach welcomed Coventry’s election, saying, “Congratulations to Kirsty Coventry on her election as the 10th IOC President. I warmly welcome the decision of the IOC Members and look forward to strong cooperation, particularly during the transition period.”
With her new role, Coventry aims to embrace innovation, strengthen Olympic values, and ensure sports continue to unite and inspire people worldwide.
