Kirsty Coventry of Zimbabwe has officially assumed office on Monday, June 23 as the first female and African president of the International Olympic Committee (IOC), succeeding Germany’s Thomas Bach.
Her election in March 2025 came as a surprise, securing a majority in the first round of voting. At just 41, the former Olympic champion swimmer is also the youngest IOC president since the organization’s founder, Pierre de Coubertin. In her acceptance speech, Coventry reflected on her journey from winning gold medals for Zimbabwe to now shaping the dreams of future Olympians, crediting her triumphs with uniting a politically divided homeland.
Coventry’s appointment has sparked renewed optimism across Africa, particularly regarding the prospect of hosting a future Summer Olympics on the continent. While countries like South Africa and Egypt have shown interest, she urged for strategic continental planning through platforms like the All Africa Games to build the infrastructure necessary for a viable Olympic bid. As Zimbabwe’s Minister of Sport since 2018, Coventry has proven her political mettle and acknowledges the complex diplomatic terrain that lies ahead, especially on contentious issues such as transgender athlete inclusion and participation of athletes from conflict-ridden nations like Russia and Belarus.
Beyond her accolades and policy ambitions, Coventry remains an emblem of balance and modern leadership—a mother of two daughters, a champion of gender equality, and a trailblazer advocating for women’s empowerment in sport. Emphasising the importance of breaking barriers, she noted her own family’s global journey and the support system enabling her to lead. As she begins her historic tenure, Coventry envisions an IOC that is inclusive, resilient, and forward-thinking—one that reflects the diversity and aspirations of athletes around the world.
