The Alliance of Independent Recognised Members of Sports (AIMS) extends its warmest congratulations to Kirsty Coventry of Zimbabwe on her historic election as the 10th President of the International Olympic Committee (IOC). This remarkable achievement, which occurred at the 144th IOC Session in Costa Navarino, Greece, makes Coventry the first female President in IOC history and the first from Africa.
Coventry emerged as the chosen leader following a decisive round of voting, surpassing a distinguished group of candidates, including HRH Prince Feisal Al Hussein, David Lappartient, Johan Eliasch, Juan Antonio Samaranch, Lord Sebastian Coe, and Morinari Watanabe. Her election is a testament to her exceptional leadership and unwavering commitment to advancing the Olympic Movement.
In her acceptance speech, President Coventry expressed her gratitude and excitement:
“I am incredibly honoured and excited to be elected as President of the International Olympic Committee! I want to sincerely thank my fellow members for their trust and support. The young girl who first started swimming in Zimbabwe all those years ago could never have dreamt of this moment.”She also emphasized the significance of her election:
“I am particularly proud to be the first female IOC President, and also the first from Africa. I hope that this vote will be an inspiration to many people. Glass ceilings have been shattered today, and I am fully aware of my responsibilities as a role model.”
Coventry’s vision for the future of the Olympic Movement is one of unity, innovation, and inclusivity:
“Sport has an unmatched power to unite, inspire, and create opportunities for all, and I am committed to harnessing that power to its fullest. Together with the entire Olympic family, including our athletes, fans, and sponsors, we will build on our strong foundations, embrace innovation, and champion the values of friendship, excellence, and respect.”AIMS is particularly proud to recognise Coventry’s steadfast support for the AIMS family and her advocacy for the United through Sports movement, which aims to bring people together through the power of sport.
Outgoing IOC President Thomas Bach also praised Coventry’s election, saying:
“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.”
AIMS President Stephan Fox was one of the first to congratulate Coventry on behalf of the entire AIMS family, recognizing the historic nature of her election and expressing his excitement about her leadership.
As Coventry prepares to officially assume her role on June 23, 2025, AIMS eagerly anticipates the positive transformation she will bring to the Olympic Movement. Her election is a monumental milestone for the IOC and serves as an inspiration for athletes and sports organizations worldwide.
AIMS stands proudly with President Kirsty Coventry as she champions the values of sport, unity, and opportunity for all.
