Zimbabwe’s Sports Minister Kirsty Coventry Becomes First Female, African to Lead IOC
Zimbabwe’s Sports Minister, Kirsty Coventry, has made history by being elected as the new president of the International Olympic Committee (IOC).
The 41-year-old former swimmer and two-time Olympic gold medalist succeeds Germany’s Thomas Bach, who has held the position since 2013.
Coventry was selected over other presidential candidates, including HRH Prince Feisal Al Hussein, David Lappartient, Johan Eliasch, Juan Antonio Samaranch, Lord Sebastian Coe, and Morinari Watanabe.
Her election makes her the first woman, first African, and the youngest ever to lead the IOC. While World Athletics president Lord Coe was considered the frontrunner, Coventry secured an overwhelming majority in the first round of voting during Thursday’s election in Greece.
Already a member of the IOC Executive Board, Coventry becomes the 10th person to take on the highest office in world sport. She will hold this position for at least the next eight years.
Coventry has been instrumental in Zimbabwe’s Olympic success, contributing seven of the country’s eight Olympic medals. She won gold in the 200m backstroke at both the 2004 and 2008 Games.
In her acceptance speech, IOC President-elect Coventry expressed, “I am incredibly honoured 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.”
Reflecting on her achievement, Coventry said, “The young girl who first started swimming in Zimbabwe all those years ago could never have dreamed of this moment.” She also highlighted her pride in being the first female and African IOC president, adding, “I hope this vote will inspire many people. Glass ceilings have been shattered today, and I am fully aware of my responsibilities as a role model.”
Coventry emphasized sport’s ability to unite and inspire, stating, “Sport has an unmatched power to unite, inspire, and create opportunities for all, and I am committed to making sure we harness that power to its fullest. Together with the entire Olympic family, including our athletes, fans, and sponsors, we will build on our strong foundations, embrace innovation, and champion the values of friendship, excellence, and respect.”
She concluded, “The future of the Olympic Movement is bright, and I can’t wait to get started!”
Outgoing IOC President Thomas Bach congratulated Coventry, 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. There is no doubt that the future for our Olympic Movement is bright and that the values we stand for will continue to guide us through the years to come.”
Coventry triumphed over six male candidates to secure the prestigious role, marking a historic milestone for the IOC and for women in leadership.
