Kirsty Coventry Becomes IOC’s First Female President with Bahrain’s Backing

TDT | Manama

Email : hussianm@newsofbahrain.com

Kirsty Coventry, the Zimbabwean swimming icon, has been elected as the first female and first African president of the International Olympic Committee (IOC), marking a significant milestone in global sports leadership. Bahrain played a notable role in her victory, with its IOC member, Sheikh Isa bin Ali Al Khalifa, among her supporters.

Coventry, 41, won the presidency in a single round of voting at the IOC General Assembly on Thursday, securing 49 of 97 votes. Addressing the assembly, she spoke of the moment’s importance: “This is an extraordinary achievement. As a young girl, I never imagined this day. I am committed to leading this organisation with integrity and pride.”

She will succeed Thomas Bach in June, becoming the youngest IOC president since Pierre de Coubertin, the founder of the modern Olympic Games. Her election has sparked interest in Bahrain, where sports officials see potential for enhanced collaboration with the IOC.

From Olympic Medallist to IOC Leader

Coventry’s path to the presidency began in the pool, where she earned seven Olympic medals, including two golds in the 200m backstroke, establishing herself as Africa’s most decorated female Olympian. Her achievements have resonated in Bahrain, where the Bahrain Swimming Association has worked to develop young talent inspired by such success.

After retiring, Coventry transitioned into leadership, serving on the IOC Athletes’ Commission and Executive Board. Since 2018, she has also been Zimbabwe’s Minister of Sport, gaining experience that complements Bahrain’s own efforts to advance its sports profile under figures like Sheikh Khalid bin Hamad Al Khalifa. Faris AlKooheji, Secretary General of the Bahrain Olympic Committee, celebrated her win by sharing a photo of the two on Instagram.

Bahrain Eyes Olympic Opportunities

Coventry’s presidency raises prospects for the Middle East, including Bahrain, which has ambitions to host major sporting events. While she highlighted Africa’s potential—naming South Africa and Egypt as possible Olympic hosts—Bahrain’s established infrastructure, such as the Bahrain International Circuit and its hosting of the Gulf Cup, positions it as a contender for future IOC projects. “Interest exists, but nations must grasp the scale of the Olympic Games,” Coventry noted, signaling a focus on preparation.

A Bahrain Olympic Committee spokesperson said, “Sheikh Isa’s support reflects our commitment to diverse leadership. We look forward to working with President Coventry to elevate Bahrain’s role in global sport.”

A New Chapter for the IOC and Bahrain

When Coventry assumes office on June 24, 2025, her leadership will usher in a more diverse and youthful era for the IOC. For Bahrain, her election—backed by Sheikh Isa—offers a chance to deepen its sporting legacy, from nurturing talents like Winfred Yavi to potentially hosting future Olympic-related events.