Zimbabwean Kirsty Coventry poses for a picture with six candidates she defeated for the International Olympic Committee (IOC) presidency. IOC
Vath Chamroeun, secretary-general of the National Olympic Committee of Cambodia (NOCC), has hailed the election of Kirsty Coventry as president of the International Olympic Committee (IOC), calling her a “symbol of change and sign of progress” for the Olympic movement.
Coventry, a seven-time Olympic gold medallist, is the first woman to hold the prestigious position.
The election took place during the 144th IOC Session, in Greece on March 20. Coventry emerged victorious from a field of seven candidates, receiving 49 out of 97 votes, defeating six male contenders. She replaces outgoing president Thomas Bach, who was appointed honorary president of the IOC.
Chamroeun shared Cambodia’s warm congratulations and commitment to working closely with the new IOC leadership.
“She has become the first female IOC president in Olympic history. On behalf of the NOCC, we extend our heartfelt congratulations and look forward to continued collaboration,” he said.
He believed her appointment marked a significant shift in the Olympic movement and will contribute to its future success and growth.
“We hope that she, as a former Olympic gold medallist from 2004, will represent transformation and progress in the movement as leadership transitions from men to women,” Chamroeun added.
He noted that Coventry’s presidency is expected to strengthen gender equality in global sports leadership.
“This is what we hope and firmly believe — that having a woman at the helm of the Olympic movement will enhance gender equity in sports administration,” he continued.
Coventry, 41, is a decorated Zimbabwean swimmer and one of Africa’s most successful Olympians. She won seven Olympic gold medals in 2004 and 2008 and currently serves as Zimbabwe’s Minister of Youth, Sport, Arts and Recreation.
Following her election, Coventry delivered an official statement expressing her gratitude and aspirations.
“A new journey begins today, and together we will work to promote equity inclusiveness, and excellence in sports,” she said.
“I am deeply honoured to be the first woman to lead the IOC and hope to inspire future generations of sportswomen across the globe,” she added.
Coventry’s election has been widely seen as a significant step toward greater diversity and representation within international sports governance.
