COVENTRY MAKES HISTORY AS FIRST AFRICAN AND WOMAN TO LEAD THE IOC

Zimbabwe’s Kirsty Coventry becomes the first African and the first woman ever to head the 130-year-old organisation.

Africa Zimbabwe Olympics First african woman to lead the ioc Sports Leadership.
Kirsty Coventry officially took over as President of the International Olympic Committee (IOC)
Kirsty Coventry officially took over as President of the International Olympic Committee (IOC)


In a momentous shift for global sports leadership, Zimbabwe’s Kirsty Coventry officially took over as President of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) on 23 June 2025, becoming the first African and the first woman ever to head the 130-year-old organisation.

The inauguration, held at the iconic Olympic House in Lausanne, Switzerland, marks a new era for the Olympic Movement, one shaped by inclusion, diversity, and a fresh global perspective. Coventry, a two-time Olympic gold medallist and former Zimbabwean Minister of Sport, was elected in March during the IOC’s 144th Session in Olympia, Greece.

She steps into the role after the 12-year presidency of Germany’s Thomas Bach, who formally handed over the reins in a symbolic gesture lauded as a “transition built on trust.” Bach, an Olympic fencing champion from the 1976 Montreal Games, was named honorary IOC President for life and awarded the Olympic Order in Gold for his service.

“New times call for new leaders,” Bach remarked, highlighting Coventry’s global appeal and transformative vision.

In her stirring inaugural address, Coventry struck a tone of unity and inclusivity: “I am honoured to serve, not only as a leader but a friend to the entire Olympic family.“

She underscored her commitment to upholding Olympic values while driving a forward-looking agenda focused on youth, sustainability, and broader participation, particularly from underrepresented regions.

Coventry’s appointment is not just a personal triumph, but a symbolic milestone for Africa and women in leadership across international institutions. As the world watches, the Olympic Movement enters a bold new chapter under her historic stewardship.

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