Kirsty Coventry’s rise to become the International Olympic Committee (IOC) President marks a historic moment in the world of sports. On March 20, 2025, Coventry, age 41, was elected the 10th President of the IOC at the 144th IOC Session held in Costa Navarino, Greece, winning 49 of the 97 available votes. This victory not only cements her status as a pivotal figure in the sports community but also makes her the first woman and first African to occupy this prestigious role.
Coventry, who has enjoyed an illustrious career as a swimmer, securing seven Olympic medals—including a gold in the 200m backstroke at the 2004 Athens Games and another in Beijing in 2008—has transitioned smoothly into the political arena. Having joined the IOC’s Athletes Commission in 2013 and subsequently becoming its chair in 2018, she became a full member of the IOC in 2023. Her expertise and political acumen, particularly in navigating complex Olympic issues, serve her well as she replaces outgoing president Thomas Bach for an eight-year term that begins on Olympic Day, June 23, 2025.
Upon her return to Harare after the election, Coventry received a warm welcome from government officials and supporters alike, who celebrated her achievement. Toting a bouquet of flowers and elated by the public support, she stated, "Thank you from the bottom of my heart for walking this journey with me. All of you have played a significant role in doing that." She emphasized breaking barriers and expressing gratitude to her IOC colleagues for their trust.
Her election comes at a challenging time for the IOC, with significant decisions pending, particularly regarding Russian athletes who have faced bans due to the ongoing geopolitical tensions. Vladimir Putin congratulated Coventry in a message released by the Kremlin, stating that her "unique experience will ensure the movement’s advancement." He noted the importance of her leadership amid calls from Russia’s sports minister Mikhail Degtyarev for Moscow’s reinstatement in Olympic competitions, highlighting the country’s desire to end its isolation in the sports world.
Coventry faces critical issues her presidency must tackle, including the contentious topic of transgender athletes' participation in women's sports. Committed to implementing a blanket ban on transgender women competing in women's events at the Olympics, she draws attention to the complexities surrounding gender eligibility—an issue that has gained prominence in recent years, especially under the scrutiny of figures like Donald Trump. Coventry, however, exuded confidence when asked how she would manage relationships with tough figures like Trump, asserting that "communication will be key," given her extensive experience with challenging personalities in high positions throughout her career.
While Coventry is lauded for her groundbreaking achievements, concerns linger regarding her political affiliations in Zimbabwe. As the country’s minister for youth, sports, art, and recreation since 2019, she has faced accusations of inaction regarding Zimbabwe's sports infrastructure, which has been condemned for its inadequacy, and has even led to CAF and FIFA imposing bans due to unsafe stadiums and government interference. However, despite these concerns, her popularity within the IOC and among voters indicates confidence in her leadership.
During her campaign, she articulated a vision that, while lacking wild ideas that characterized some of her competitors, focused on continuity over radical change, positioning her as a less contentious alternative compared to more vocal candidates like Seb Coe, who has called for increased transparency in the IOC's operations. Coventry’s moderate stance and closeness to Bach suggest a potential continuation of his policies rather than a complete overhaul of the organizational structure.
Coventry’s election as IOC President is an inspiring milestone, especially for women in sports around the globe. "I hope that this vote will be an inspiration to many people," she declared during her victory speech. "Glass ceilings have been shattered today, and I am fully aware of my responsibilities as a role model." The journey ahead will require her to address pressing challenges with diplomacy and expertise, lending her platform to advocate for inclusivity and equality in sports.
As Coventry begins her term, all eyes will remain on her leadership decisions, particularly regarding international controversies and the integration of women athletes in competitive categories. Her presidency not only holds the promise of advancing Olympic ideals but also represents an opportunity to foster global unity through sports amid a rapidly changing geopolitical landscape.
