Kirsty Coventry to Lead IOC in Historic First

Kirsty Coventry, a former Olympic swimming champion from Zimbabwe and Africa’s most decorated Olympian, is set to become the first woman and first African president of the International Olympic Committee (IOC), succeeding Thomas Bach. Coventry has prioritized stakeholder collaboration in her leadership approach, signaling a shift from Bach’s centralized and rapid decision-making style. She will begin her tenure with a two-day workshop for IOC members to discuss key issues. Bach’s presidency was marked by major reforms, including overhauling the Olympic bidding process, introducing new sports, and managing the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Coventry has reflected on the significance of her historic appointment and emphasized her focus on substance rather than title or power. Her collaborative approach is expected to bring a new dynamic to the IOC’s leadership.