Zimbabwe's Sports Minister Kirsty Coventry has made history by being elected as the new President of the International Olympic Committee (IOC), becoming the first woman, the first African, and the youngest person to hold the prestigious role.
The 41-year-old former Olympic swimming champion, who secured two gold medals during her illustrious career, will succeed Germany's Thomas Bach, who has served as IOC President since 2013.
Thursday's election in Greece saw a competitive field of candidates vying for the top job. World Athletics boss Lord Coe was among the favorites, but Coventry emerged victorious, securing an absolute majority of 49 votes out of the 97 available in the first round.
Juan Antonio Samaranch Jr finished as runner-up with 28 votes, while Coe received eight. France's David Lappartient and Japan's Morinari Watanabe each garnered four votes, and Prince Feisal al Hussein of Jordan and Sweden's Johan Eliasch both received two.
Coventry, who already held a position on the IOC Executive Board and was widely regarded as Bach's preferred candidate, becomes the 10th person to lead the organization. She will serve in the role for at least the next eight years.
A decorated athlete, Coventry has won seven of Zimbabwe's eight Olympic medals, including gold in the 200m backstroke at both the 2004 and 2008 Games. Her election marks a significant milestone for the Olympic movement, breaking down barriers and paving the way for greater diversity in sports leadership.
"The young girl who first started swimming in Zimbabwe all those years ago could never have dreamed of this moment," Coventry said, expressing her gratitude and humility after defeating six male rivals. "I am deeply honoured and humbled to be entrusted with this responsibility. I am committed to serving the Olympic movement with passion, integrity, and dedication."
Her victory is seen as a watershed moment, not only for women in sport but for the African continent as a whole. Coventry's election signals a shift towards greater inclusivity and representation within the IOC, reflecting the organisation's commitment to promoting equality and diversity. The sporting world will now look to her leadership as the IOC faces the evolving challenges and opportunities of the 21st century.
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