– On behalf of the Russian Olympic Committee, I would like to extend greetings to Kirsty Coventry on her election as IOC President! Her outstanding career in sports, along with her Olympic victories and record-breaking achievements, truly made her a top contender in this election. We are excited to see how her leadership will strengthen and enhance the Olympic Movement, fostering greater independence and prosperity, and paving the way for Russia to return to the Olympic podium! – Michael Degtyarev, Minister of Sports of Russia and President of the Russian Olympic Committee claimed.
Coventry will take office on June 24, 2025, when Thomas Bach’s tenure, which began in 2013, officially ends. The 41-year-old Zimbabwean is to become the tenth president in IOC history and the first female leader of the global Olympic movement.
After the secret ballot results were revealed, Kirsty Coventry, speaking to the participants of the 144th IOC session, admitted to having “an exhilarating moment”.
– As a 9-year-old girl I could never have dreamt of being here, paying tribute to this incredible movement of ours. This honor serves as a powerful reminder of my responsibility to each of you. I am committed to leading this organization with pride, ensuring that our core values remain at the forefront of everything we do. I am dedicated to making you all proud, and I trust that you are confident in the decision made today. We have got some work together ahead. The race has been an incredible experience, and it has strengthened our team and our movement.
