Two-time Olympic gold medalist Kirsty Coventry of Zimbabwe has officially taken the helm as President of the International Olympic Committee (IOC), making history as the first woman and the first African to hold the prestigious position.
At a ceremony on Monday, the 41-year-old swimming legend received the golden key from outgoing President Thomas Bach, marking the beginning of her eight-year term as the world’s most influential sports administrator.
“As the Olympic movement, we are the guardians of this incredible platform,” Coventry said in her inaugural address. “It’s not just about a multi-sport event. It’s a platform to inspire, to change lives, and to bring hope. I’m looking forward to working with each and every one of you to ensure we continue to inspire and be a beacon of hope in our divided world.”
Coventry’s illustrious athletic career includes gold medals in the 200-meter backstroke at the 2004 Athens Olympics and the 2008 Beijing Olympics. Her transition from athlete to administrator has been marked by a commitment to youth engagement and sports development, particularly in underrepresented regions.
Thomas Bach, who led the IOC from 2013 to 2025, concluded his tenure with a message of confidence in his successor. “With her election, you have sent a powerful message to the world,” Bach said. “Kirsty reflects the truly global nature and youthful, forward-looking spirit of our Olympic community. From tomorrow on, with Kirsty Coventry, the Olympic Movement will be in the best of hands.”
Bach, a former Olympic fencing champion, spearheaded significant reforms during his presidency, including the Olympic Agenda 2020 and a restructured bidding process aimed at making the Games more sustainable and accessible.
Coventry’s leadership is anticipated to bring a fresh perspective to the IOC, emphasizing inclusivity, innovation, and the power of sport to unite communities globally. Her appointment is seen as a monumental step towards greater representation and diversity within international sports governance.
“I am truly honored to embark on this journey,” Coventry expressed. “Together, we will continue to change lives through sport and uphold the values that make the Olympic movement a source of hope and inspiration for all.”
