Zimbabwe’s Kirsty Coventry aged 41, has become the first woman and first African President of 144th IOC Session held in Costa Navarino, Greece. This election strengthens the IOC’s commitment to diversity, gender parity, and global outreach, setting a new precedent in the history of the Olympic Movement.
Key Highlights
- Historic First: Kirsty Coventry is the first female and African President in IOC’s history. She will also be youngest ever to assume role officially assume office on 24 June 2025, after current President Thomas Bach steps down following his 12-year tenure.
- Term: The IOC President is elected by IOC members through a secret ballot for a term of eight years, which may be extended by four more years.
- First Event to Oversee: Coventry’s first major responsibility will be to oversee the Milan-Cortina Winter Games in Italy in 2026, with the Opening Ceremony scheduled in less than 11 months. She will also guide the selection process for the 2036 Olympics host city.
About Kirsty Coventry
Double Olympic Swimming Champion: She is a celebrated Olympian and Zimbabwe’s most decorated athlete, having won seven out of the country’s eight Olympic medals.
- 2004 Athens Olympics: Won three medals, including gold in the 200m backstroke.
- 2008 Beijing Olympics: Successfully defended her gold medal title in the 200m backstroke.
Sports Minister and IOC Leadership: Before becoming IOC President, she served as Zimbabwe’s Minister of Youth, Sport, Arts, and Recreation and was already an active member of IOC. Her achievements on and off field reflect her commitment to global sports development.
Significance of Her Election
- Gender Equality Milestone: Coventry’s election comes at a time when gender equality in sports is gaining momentum. Following the Paris 2024 Olympics, which set a milestone as the first Olympics to achieve full gender parity, her presidency reinforces the IOC’s commitment to diversity and inclusion.
Breaking Barriers: Until 1981, the IOC had no female members, and Coventry is only the second woman to run for the presidency, highlighting the progress made in advancing women’s representation in global sports leadership.