Kirsty Coventry Makes History as First Female IOC President
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Synopsis
Kirsty Coventry has made history by becoming the first female President of the IOC, elected during the 144th IOC Session in Costa Navarino, Greece. This remarkable achievement follows a competitive election that saw her emerge victorious over notable candidates.
Key Takeaways
- Kirsty Coventry is the first female IOC President.
- The election was held in Costa Navarino, Greece.
- She succeeds Thomas Bach, whose term ends on June 23.
- Coventry aims to inspire future generations.
- Sport's power to unite is a focal point of her presidency.
Costa Navarino (Greece), March 20 (NationPress) Zimbabwe's Kirsty Coventry has been elected as the 10th President of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and the first female President in IOC history, following a single round of voting at the 144th IOC Session held in Costa Navarino, Greece on Thursday.
Coventry triumphed over other presidential contenders including HRH Prince Feisal Al Hussein, David Lappartient, Johan Eliasch, Juan Antonio Samaranch, Lord Sebastian Coe, and Morinari Watanabe.
She will take over from the ninth IOC President, Thomas Bach, whose 12-year leadership will officially conclude after June 23. The President is elected by IOC Members through a secret ballot for a term lasting eight years.
Upon her election, President-elect Coventry stated: “I am incredibly honoured and excited to be elected as President of the International Olympic Committee! I want to sincerely thank my fellow members for their trust and support.
“The young girl who first started swimming in Zimbabwe all those years ago could never have envisioned this moment. I am particularly proud to be the first female IOC President, and also the first from Africa. I hope this vote serves as an inspiration to many. Glass ceilings have been shattered today, and I am fully aware of my responsibilities as a role model.
“Sport has an unmatched power to unite, inspire and create opportunities for all, and I am committed to ensuring we harness that power to its fullest. Together with the entire Olympic family, including 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!”
After the election, IOC President Bach remarked: “Congratulations to Kirsty Coventry on her election as the 10th IOC President. I warmly welcome the decision made by the IOC Members and look forward to strong cooperation, especially during the transition period. 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 through the years to come.”
