Kirsty Coventry, a Zimbabwean Olympic champion, has been elected President of the International Olympic Committee (IOC), becoming the first woman, the first African, and one of the youngest individuals to lead the organization in its 131-year history.
Her election marks a historic step for gender equality, African representation, and diversity in global sports leadership. Known for her athlete-first approach, Coventry’s priorities include protecting women in sport, promoting sustainability, navigating global tensions, and expanding youth engagement—especially in underserved regions.
She is expected to play a key role in the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympics, the first Olympic event on African soil, aiming to create lasting impact beyond the Games.
With a background as Zimbabwe’s Minister of Sport, Coventry is seen as capable of balancing political pressures while upholding Olympic values. Her leadership is anticipated to strengthen global partnerships and inspire a new generation of athletes, especially in Africa.
Source – CGTN