Zim Golden Girl takes aim at IOC presidency

Africa’s most decorated Olympian, Kirsty Coventry, is among the frontrunners to replace outgoing president Thomas Bach at the 144th International Olympic Committee (IOC) General Assembly this March.

If elected, Coventry would not only be the first woman to lead the IOC but also the first president from Africa—marking a historic moment for the Olympic Movement.

“I want to give back to a movement that has given me so much,” Coventry said ahead of the election, which takes place at the 144th IOC session in Greece from 18-21 March.

SEVEN MEDALS

A seven-time Olympic medallist, Coventry has dedicated her life to sport, both as an athlete and a leader. Her Olympic dream began as a nine-year-old watching the 1992 Barcelona Games, where she was inspired by the power of sport to unite, inspire, and create opportunities.

Now, she is running for IOC president with the goal of reaching as many young children as possible and ensuring they have the same opportunities she had to pursue their dreams.

“This is not about me. This is about what we can achieve together and how we can strengthen the Olympic Movement for future generations,” Coventry said.

With more than 12 years of leadership within the IOC, Coventry has played a key role in shaping the future of the Games. She currently serves as Chairperson of the Games Optimisation Working Group, a critical role focused on ensuring the Olympic Games remain innovative, sustainable, and impactful for athletes, host cities, and fans.

She also serves on the IOC Executive Board, leads the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games and Chairs the Brisbane 2032 Olympic Coordination Commission.

Coventry’s leadership is defined by a commitment to athletes and ensuring that the Olympic Games continue to evolve while staying true to their values.

A former recipient of the Olympic Solidarity Scholarship, Coventry knows first hand the importance of investing in athletes, especially those from underserved backgrounds. She has been a vocal advocate for expanding access to sports funding, resources, and training opportunities.

“I want to create and strengthen programs that are going to help more athletes become Olympians and Olympic champions,” she said.

MINISTER IN ZIMBABWE

Beyond the Olympic arena, Coventry has demonstrated her leadership on a global stage. Since 2018, she has served as Zimbabwe’s Minister of Youth, Sport, Arts, and Recreation, leading initiatives to grow sport and empower young people.

Now, she is aiming to take on the biggest job in world sport. If elected, she would bring a fresh, athlete-centred vision to the IOC, ensuring that the Olympic Movement remains strong, innovative, and relevant for future generations.

From becoming Africa’s most decorated Olympian to breaking barriers as a leader in global sport, Kirsty Coventry has never been afraid to forge new paths. Now, she’s ready to do it again—this time, as the next president of the International Olympic Committee.