The former swimming star from Zimbabwe is taking over from Thomas Bach, who is now leaving his post. Bach will formally step down in June.
Kirsty Coventry is not only the first woman in history to become IOC President, but also the first from Africa.
This is a very powerful signal, she says in an interview with journalists after the election.
"Problematic men"
This is a signal that we are truly global and that we have developed into an organization that is open to diversity. And we will continue on that path over the next eight years, she continues.
At a press conference, she was asked about the future relationship with US President Donald Trump, considering the Olympic Games in Los Angeles 2028.
I have dealt with, let's say, problematic men in high positions since I was 20 years old. First and foremost, I have learned that communication is crucial, says Coventry.
There are concerns that it may become problematic for Olympic athletes and spectators from certain countries to enter the country due to the US visa regulations.
I am convinced that President Trump loves sports and he will want the Games to make an impact and be a success. We will not deviate from our values. Our values of solidarity and that all athletes who qualify have the opportunity to participate in the Olympic Games and feel safe, she says.
The former swimming star has herself won two Olympic gold medals in the 200-meter backstroke and taken an additional five Olympic medals.
Won directly
Coventry becomes the tenth President in the IOC's 131-year history and was seen as one of the main favorites along with Sebastian Coe and Juan Antonio Samaranch junior. Her mandate runs until 2033.
Kirsty Coventry received 49 votes, more than half of the 97 possible. Samaranch received 28 and Coe only eight.
I am glad for Kirsty's sake. We have an (former) athlete as President. We actually talked about it together a couple of weeks ago and agreed that it would be the best outcome, says Sebastian Coe.
Swedish-Briton Johan Eliasch, President of the International Ski Federation (Fis), was one of seven candidates, but he only received two votes.
Born: September 16, 1983 (41 years old).
From: Zimbabwe
Sport: Swimming (backstroke and medley).
Olympic merits: 2 gold, 4 silver, and 1 bronze.
Other background: Minister of Sports in Zimbabwe since 2018, became an IOC member in 2013 on a mandate from the athletes' council and has been an ordinary member since 2021.
Source: NTB.
