Italy Welcomes Coventry’s Election as IOC President

Rome: Italian ministers and sports officials expressed satisfaction on Thursday after Kirsty Coventry was elected the first woman president of the International Olympic Committee (IOC). The 41-year-old twice Olympic swimming champion and Zimbabwean minister for sport replaces Thomas Bach at the head of international sport.

According to Ansa News Agency, Italian Sports Minister Andrea Abodi emphasized the significance of Coventry’s election, stating, “The election of Kirsty Coventry as IOC President is a step of great value and importance for the future of sport and its positive influence on society, confirming the evolution of the Olympic movement to make its universality, its social and educational role and sports diplomacy increasingly more effective.” He further expressed confidence in Coventry’s experience, suggesting that her leadership will address the complex challenges ahead while building on the accomplishments of her predecessor, Thomas Bach. Abodi also extended gratitude to Bach for his contributions, particularly in supporting the Milano-Cortina 2026 and the 2028 Winter Youth Olympics being assigned to Italy.

Italian Olympic Committee (CONI) President Giovanni Malag² also extended his congratulations to Coventry. He announced her election via X, stating, “The IOC members have elected Kirsty Coventry: she is the new president of the International Olympic Committee. Woman, African, Olympian. Proud of this historic decision.”