Kirsty Coventry has made history by becoming the first woman to hold the position of International Olympic Committee (IOC) president, a role she secured with an overall majority of votes in a landslide victory. The 41-year-old Zimbabwean sports minister and double Olympic swimming champion won 49 out of 97 secret ballot votes, leaving Lord Coe, the highest-profile candidate, with just eight votes.
Coventry’s background as a seven-time Olympic medallist and her experience as an IOC member since 2013 have helped project a progressive image for the IOC. However, questions have been raised about how she achieved such a landslide victory, with some speculating that outgoing president Thomas Bach was behind her campaign.
Bach has denied any direct lobbying on Coventry’s behalf but his influence over the IOC and many of its members is undeniable. The exclusive organisation seems resistant to change, which may lead to increased scrutiny of the IOC’s secretive election process.
Coventry’s tenure as IOC president will face numerous challenges, including dealing with Russia’s potential reintegration into the Olympic movement, building a relationship with US President Donald Trump, and addressing long-term issues such as gender eligibility, climate change, doping, and ensuring the Games remain relevant in a rapidly changing media landscape.
The appointment of Coventry marks a significant step forward for women in sport, particularly for Africa, which may increase its chances of hosting future Olympic Games. As she assumes her new role in June, Coventry’s diplomatic skills will be put to the test, and it remains to be seen how she will navigate the complex world of international sports politics.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/sport/olympics/articles/cgm1kvkner0o