Kirsty Coventry has been chosen as the president of the International Olympic Committee, making her both the first woman and the first African to take what could be considered the most prominent role in international sports.
The Zimbabwean sports minister and double Olympic swimming champion secured an unexpected victory in the initial round of the election for the International Olympic Committee (IOC) seat, following votes cast by approximately 100 fellow members on Thursday.
She receives an eight-year term extending until 2033.
This was one of the most transparent and unpredictable elections for the position of IOC president in recent history, with no obvious frontrunner from the start. Numerous observers anticipated that achieving an outright majority might require multiple voting rounds.
Coventry’s triumph also marked a win for the departing IOC president Thomas Bach, who has consistently advocated for her as his potential replacement. However, he chose not to exercise his voting rights in this instance.
“I will make each one of you incredibly proud and ideally even more assured about the choice you’ve made,” Coventry stated during her acceptance speech. “Let’s get started on this work together now.”
As she made her way to the podium, Juan Antonio Samaranch greeted her with congratulations and kisses on both cheeks; he had been anticipated as her principal competitor in the voting.
Additionally competing in the election were four leaders of major sporting organizations: Sebastian Coe from track and field, Johan Eliasch from skiing, David Lappartient from cycling, and Morinari Watanabe from gymnastics.
Prince Feisal al Hussein of Jordan was also among those competing.
On June 23rd, which marks Olympic Day, Coventry will succeed her mentor Bach as the 10th IOC president in the organization’s 131-year history. Bach has served his maximum of 12 years in this role.
The primary hurdles for the 41-year-old Coventry will involve guiding the Olympic movement through various political and sports-related challenges as they head towards the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles. This includes navigating diplomatic efforts with US President Donald Trump.
Coventry's IOC will similarly have to locate a venue for the 2036 Summer Games, with potential hosts including India or a nation from the Middle East.
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