International Olympic Committee : Kirsty Coventry Elected President

Kirsty Coventry of Zimbabwe was elected the 10th President of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) during the 144th IOC Session in Costa Navarino, Greece on Thursday March 21, 2025. This historic election marks the first time a woman has held the prestigious position in the IOC's history.
Coventry (41), a celebrated Olympic swimming champion and Zimbabwean Sports Minister, secured victory in the first round of secret ballot voting, surpassing a field of distinguished candidates. “I am incredibly honoured and excited to be elected as President of the International Olympic Committee!" Coventry expressed following her win. "I want to sincerely thank my fellow members for their trust and support.”
Coventry also becomes the first African to lead the IOC. “The young girl who first started swimming in Zimbabwe all those years ago could never have dreamt of this moment," she said. "I am particularly proud to be the first female IOC President, and also the first from Africa. I hope that this vote will be an inspiration to many people. Glass ceilings have been shattered today, and I am fully aware of my responsibilities as a role model.” Coventry's impressive athletic background, which includes seven of Zimbabwe’s eight Olympic medals, including gold medals at the 2004 and 2008 Games, coupled with her political experience, posit...