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Kirsty Coventry of Zimbabwe has been elected as the 10th President of the International Olympic Committee (IOC), becoming the first female President in IOC history. The election took place during the 144th IOC Session in Costa Navarino, Greece, with Coventry securing victory after a single round of voting. She triumphed over fellow candidates HRH Prince Feisal Al Hussein, David Lappartient, Johan Eliasch, Juan Antonio Samaranch, Lord Sebastian Coe, and Morinari Watanabe.
Following her election, President-elect Coventry expressed her gratitude and vision, stating:
“The young girl who first started swimming in Zimbabwe all those years ago could never have dreamt of this moment. I am particularly proud to be the first female IOC President, and also the first from Africa. I hope that this vote will be an inspiration to many people. Glass ceilings have been shattered today, and I am fully aware of my responsibilities as a role model.
“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. The future of the Olympic Movement is bright, and I can’t wait to get started!”
Outgoing IOC President Thomas Bach extended his congratulations, stating:
“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.”
Kirsty Coventry will take over from Thomas Bach, the ninth IOC President, whose 12-year term will officially conclude on Monday, 23 June 2025. The IOC President is elected by its members via secret ballot and serves an eight-year term.
144th IOC Session – Election Announcement
Source: International Olympic Committee (IOC). Image: Gabi Juan/EJU
Author: Szandra Szogedi