Incoming History-Making IOC President, Kirsty Coventry: “This is Our Time”

Zimbabwe’s Kirsty Coventry has shattered barriers, becoming the first African and first woman to be elected President of the International Olympic Committee in an announcement released on Thursday, 20 March, 2025. 

The two-time Olympic champion and Zimbabwe’s Sports Minister secured victory in a secret ballot at the 144th IOC Session in Costa Navarino, Greece, and takes over from outgoing President Thomas Bach after an eight-year term and will officially assume office on Olympic Day, 23 June. She won in the first round of voting with the 49 votes needed for a majority from the 97 votes cast.

In her acceptance speech, Coventry reflected on her journey from a young girl in Zimbabwe to the highest office in world sport:

“This is an extraordinary moment. As a nine-year-old girl, I never thought I’d be standing up here one day, getting to give back to this incredible Movement of ours.”

Incoming President of the International Olympic Committee, Zimbabwe’s Kirsty Coventry 

World leaders and sports icons have celebrated Coventry’s groundbreaking achievement. 

Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa: “Congratulations to our own Kirsty Coventry on her historic election as the first female and first African President of the IOC. A proud achievement for Zimbabwe and the continent! Wishing her the greatest of success. #Zimbabwe #IOC #KirstyCoventry”

IOC Chairman Jay Shah highlighted her role in cricket’s Olympic ambitions: “Congratulations and best wishes to newly elected ICC President @KirstyConventry, an honour thoroughly deserved and something I’m humbled to have been present for in Greece after hosting at the @ICC #ChampionsTrophy. I look forward to working with you and your team on cricket’s inclusion in the @LA28 Games – and beyond.”

“@KirstyConventry HUGE CONGRATULATIONS on becoming the 1st female IOC President… And first from Africa. We are very proud of you!”

South African Olympic Legend and 2006 gsport Hall of Famer, Penny Heyns

Football great Didier Drogba echoed the sentiment: “Congratulations to @KirstyConventry for being the first woman and African President of the IOC!!! @IOCMedia”

Speaking to Olympics.com, Coventry sent a powerful message to Africa: “This is our time.”

As IOC President, Coventry will lead preparations for the Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026, with less than 11 months until the Opening Ceremony. Outgoing President Thomas Bach welcomed her election:

“Congratulations to Kirsty Coventry on her election as the 10th IOC President. I warmly welcome the decision of the IOC Members and look forward to strong cooperation, particularly 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.”

With her appointment, Kirsty Coventry not only makes history but also signals a new era for global sport, diversity, and inclusion at the highest level.

Main Photo Caption: Zimbabwe’s Kirsty Coventry has shattered barriers, becoming the first African and first woman to be elected President of the International Olympic Committee in an announcement released on Thursday, 20 March, 2025. Photo: IOC / Greg Martin