Kirsty Coventry Elected as First Female and African IOC President
Coventry secures a historic win in the first round of voting, succeeding Thomas Bach to lead the International Olympic Committee.
- Kirsty Coventry, a 41-year-old former Olympic swimmer from Zimbabwe, was elected as IOC President during the 144th General Assembly in Costa Navarino, Greece.
- She won decisively in the first round with 49 out of 97 votes, becoming the first woman and African to lead the IOC in its 131-year history.
- Coventry, seen as outgoing President Thomas Bach’s preferred candidate, is expected to continue his policies emphasizing stability and continuity.
- Her presidency begins on June 24, 2025, following a transition period during which Bach will remain in charge of IOC operations.
- Coventry faces significant challenges, including navigating geopolitical tensions, addressing climate change, and rebuilding institutional trust in the IOC.
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