By Sports Reporter-Sports Minister Kirsty Coventry has confirmed that she is stepping down from her cabinet post to assume the presidency of the International Olympic Committee (IOC), marking a historic milestone in global sports governance.
The 41-year-old, a two-time Olympic gold medallist, was elected as the 10th President of the IOC during the 144th IOC Session in Costa Navarino, Greece, on March 20.
She emerged victorious in a secret ballot among seven candidates, securing an eight-year term at the helm of the world’smost influential sporting body.
Coventry’s election is a groundbreaking moment in the IOC’s 130-year history, as she becomes the first female and the first African to assume the prestigious role.
Addressing the media upon her return to Zimbabwe on Sunday, Coventry expressed gratitude for her time in government and assured a smooth transition before formally assuming office on June 23, which coincides with Olympic Day. She stated:
“I’m very honoured to have been part of this government for the last few years. I will be sad not to sit next to you anymore, Monica [Women’s Affairs Minister Mutsvangwa], but I’m grateful for the advice that all my colleagues have given me over the last few years.
I can’t see Dr [Thokozile] Chitepo, but when I first came in, Doc, you were an incredible source of inspiration and support, so thank you for that. I’m proud of the work that we’ve all done.
Don’t worry, I’m not going to just run away tomorrow. We have a handover transition period, and I will formally take office on June 23rd. To the ministry, I see a lot of my team from the ministry here. Thank you to the directors, deputy directors, CDs (chief directors), and acting CDs. I appreciated getting to know all of you and working together over the last few years.”
Coventry will officially take over from outgoing IOC President Thomas Bach, who will step down after serving since 2013. Following the transfer of power, Bach will assume the honorary title of President Emeritus.
Coventry’s elevation to the top of the Olympic movement caps a remarkable career in both sports and administration.
She is Zimbabwe’s most decorated Olympian, having won seven Olympic medals, including two golds in the 200m backstroke at the 2004 Athens and 2008 Beijing Games.
Her success put Zimbabwe on the global sporting map, making her a national icon.
Beyond her Olympic triumphs, Coventry enjoyed an illustrious career as a world champion and record-holder.
She won multiple gold medals at the World Championships and All-Africa Games, further cementing her reputation as one of Africa’s greatest athletes.
Her leadership credentials were recognized early, leading to key roles within the IOC.
She served as an IOC member since 2013 and chaired the IOC Athletes’ Commission from 2018 to 2021, advocating for athletes’ rights and sports development globally.
She also played a crucial role in shaping policies for clean sport and gender equality in the Olympic movement.
Locally, Coventry’s tenure as Zimbabwe’s Minister of Youth, Sport, Arts, and Recreation saw efforts to revamp the country’s sports infrastructure and policies.
Despite facing criticism over government constraints on sports funding and administration, she remained committed to the development of Zimbabwean athletes.
As IOC President, Coventry will oversee the Olympic movement during a critical period, with preparations already underway for the Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026.
Her leadership will be pivotal in shaping the future of the Games, ensuring sustainability, inclusivity, and technological innovation in global sports.
Her historic appointment has been widely celebrated, with global sporting bodies and leaders lauding her achievements.
Many see her as a transformative leader who will bring fresh perspectives to the IOC, particularly in championing athlete welfare and sports development in underrepresented regions.
Coventry’s departure from Zimbabwe’s government signifies the end of an era in local sports administration but marks the beginning of an even bigger role on the world stage.
As she steps into this historic position, all eyes will be on her leadership in shaping the Olympic legacy for generations to come.