Kirsty Coventry has been elected as the 10th President of the International Olympic Committee (IOC), making history as the first woman and the first African to hold the prestigious position in the organisation’s 131-year existence. The 41-year-old Zimbabwean sports minister and two-time Olympic swimming gold medalist secured a decisive victory, earning 49 out of 97 votes in the first round of a fiercely contested election.
Coventry’s win, delivered through a secret ballot during the 144th IOC Session, marked a watershed moment for global sports leadership. Her nearest rival, Spanish candidate Juan Antonio Samaranch Jr., received 28 votes. The outcome not only underscores the IOC’s evolving commitment to diversity and inclusion but also signals a generational and geographical shift in its leadership.
“This is a signal that we are truly global,” Coventry said in her acceptance speech. “The young girl who started swimming in Zimbabwe all those years ago could never have dreamed of this moment.”
“I am particularly proud to be the first female IOC President, and also the first from Africa. I hope this vote will inspire many people. Glass ceilings have been shattered today, and I am fully aware of my responsibilities as a role model,” she concluded.
Coventry also stressed her vision for a more innovative and inclusive Olympic Movement. “Sport has an unmatched power to unite, inspire, and create opportunities for all. Together with the entire Olympic family—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.”
Her election comes at a critical time for the IOC, with major challenges and opportunities on the horizon, including preparations for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics and the bidding process for the 2036 Summer Games. Coventry’s extensive background in sport, politics, and governance positions her well for the road ahead.
Among the eight candidates in the fray, several high-profile figures competed for the presidency, including World Athletics President Lord Sebastian Coe, IOC Vice President Juan Antonio Samaranch Jr., and Prince Feisal al Hussein of Jordan. Despite being considered a favourite, Coventry’s first-round win surprised many who anticipated a longer voting process.
“For her to start her presidency with those numbers, it is a sign of optimism to all of us,” Samaranch said after the results were announced. “We will all be behind her.”
The election followed months of lobbying and intense behind-the-scenes negotiations. Coventry’s manifesto emphasised continuity with the leadership of outgoing President Thomas Bach, contrasting with more reform-driven agendas proposed by rivals. Coe had advocated financial rewards for gold medallists, while Samaranch called for commercial reforms, including greater athlete control over Olympic footage.
Congratulating his successor, Thomas Bach said: “I warmly welcome the decision of the IOC Members and look forward to strong cooperation during the transition. 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.”
Bach, who did not vote in the election, steps down in June 2025 after completing the maximum 12-year tenure. His influence on the outcome was palpable, with Coventry long viewed as one of his protégés. Her victory is seen as a continuation of Bach’s focus on gender parity, youth engagement, and financial stability within the Olympic ecosystem.
Coventry brings to the role deep institutional knowledge. She served on the IOC Executive Board from 2018 to 2021 and chaired the Coordination Commission for the 2026 Youth Olympic Games and Brisbane 2032 Olympics. Her involvement with the World Anti-Doping Agency’s Athlete Committee and her track record as Zimbabwe’s Minister of Sport further strengthened her candidacy.
Beyond her official responsibilities, Coventry has been a staunch advocate for youth empowerment and grassroots sports development, founding the KCA Swim Academy and the HEROES initiative in Zimbabwe. These efforts are expected to inform her presidency, which is likely to prioritise inclusivity, access, and global representation.
She will officially assume office on Olympic Day, 23 June 2025, and her initial agenda is already packed. Among her top priorities will be navigating geopolitical tensions in the lead-up to LA 2028, maintaining unity within the Olympic family, and overseeing the complex selection process for the 2036 Summer Games. India and several Middle Eastern countries are among the frontrunners to host, with influential IOC figures such as Nita Ambani expected to play a key role in shaping the bid process.
Coventry has signalled her readiness to meet global challenges head-on. Speaking at a news conference ahead of the vote, she addressed questions about dealing with powerful political figures, including potential interactions with US President Donald Trump during the LA 2028 cycle.
“I have been dealing with difficult men in high positions since I was 20 years old,” she remarked candidly. “What I have learned is that communication will be key.”
Her election is being widely celebrated across the sporting world—not only as a victory for Coventry herself, but as a moment of transformation for the Olympic movement. Her leadership promises a blend of continuity and change, rooted in experience, vision, and a deep belief in the unifying power of sport.
As the Olympic flame passes to its first female and African guardian, the world watches with renewed optimism. Coventry’s ascent reflects not just personal achievement, but a symbolic leap forward for inclusion and representation in global sport.
💬 Catch more breaking stories and expert coverage at, visit It’s All Sport to Me and follow us on socials @itsallsporttome for daily updates!