New IOC president Kirsty Coventry says she’ll ‘lead through collaboration’

Kirsty Coventry, the new president of the International Olympic Committee, has highlighted collaboration with stakeholders as a top priority for her upcoming tenure. In a media roundtable held in Berlin, Coventry, a former Olympic swimming champion from Zimbabwe and Africa’s most decorated Olympian, expressed her commitment to listening to all opinions and making decisions together. She emphasized the importance of moving forward while considering the input of others.

Taking over from Thomas Bach, Coventry is set to officially assume her role after the handover ceremony in Lausanne, Switzerland next week. As the first woman and first African to lead the IOC, Coventry’s approach is expected to differ from her predecessor. While Bach was known for his swift decision-making and centralized power, Coventry aims to foster a more collaborative environment within the organization.

During her tenure, Bach implemented significant reforms such as revamping the Olympic bidding process, introducing new sports, and reducing costs for host cities. He also successfully navigated challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic, which caused delays and disruptions to major sporting events.

Coventry plans to kick off her presidency with a two-day workshop for IOC members starting on June 24, focusing on engaging with stakeholders on crucial issues. She highlighted that her decision to run for president was not driven by title or power but rather by a desire to make a positive impact.

Reflecting on her historic appointment as the first female president of the IOC, Coventry acknowledged the significance of her role and the responsibility it entails. With the IOC generating billions of dollars in revenue annually, Coventry stressed the importance of leading the organization with integrity and accountability.

As the excitement builds towards her official takeover, Coventry expressed pride in being elected as the first female president of the IOC. She recognizes the weight of this momentous occasion and the impact it can have on future generations.

In conclusion, Kirsty Coventry’s presidency marks a new chapter for the International Olympic Committee, characterized by a collaborative and inclusive leadership style. Her commitment to listening, collaboration, and responsible decision-making sets the stage for a transformative and progressive era in Olympic governance.