Coventry Becomes First Female President in Olympic History

Kirsty Coventry makes history as the first female and African president of the IOC

Kirity Coventry on Thursday made history by becoming the first woman and first African President of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) in 130 years of history. At the age of 41, she is also the youngest IOC president. Zimbabwe’s Sports Minister and two -time Olympic swimming gold medalist won a remarkable victory against six other candidates. The Coventry will succeed the current President, Thomas Bach, whose 12 -year term ends on 23 June.

The appointment of Kirsty Coventry at the top position in World Sports is seen as the beginning of a new era. A total of 100 impressive figures participated in the election, with 97 members voted in the first round. Coventry secured 49 votes, defeating strong contenders such as the famous athlete Sebastian Coe and Juan Antonio Samaranch Jr. It was one of the most unexpected presidential elections in decades, in which there was no clear before the vote.

For this prestigious position, the election was held at a resort in Peloponnese, Greece. Seven -time Olympic medalist, Coventry joined the Commission for IOC athletes at 2012 and her election at the top position is a new era for IOC. She is expected to bring new perspectives on major issues such as the rights, gender equality and stability of sports.