Today, at the 144th session of the International Olympic Committee (IOC), Kirsty Coventry was elected as the first woman President of the IOC.

Kirsty Coventry will succeed the ninth IOC President, Thomas Bach, whose 12-year term will officially end on June 23, 2025.

“I hope my election will inspire many. Sport has the power to unite and create opportunities for everyone,” Coventry stated.

Coventry was elected based on a single round of voting, defeating other candidates including HRH Prince Faisal Al Husseini, David Lappartient, Johan Eliasch, Juan Antonio Samaranch, Lord Sebastian Coe, and Morinari Watanabe.

“Sport has incomparable power to unite, inspire, and create opportunities for all, and I am committed to ensuring we harness that power fully. Together with the entire Olympic family—our athletes, fans, and sponsors—we will build on our strong foundations, embrace innovation, and promote the values of friendship, excellence, and respect. The future of the Olympic movement is bright, and I can’t wait to get started!”

The President is elected by IOC members through a secret ballot for an eight-year term.