The Ceremony
Kirsty Coventry took over the office as the first woman and African to hold such a powerful office in the sporting world globally. During the ceremony, the former President Thomas Bach expressed gratitude and confidence in the new leadership under Kirsty, which he described as a necessary change that was needed as times have changed. He stated, “She reflects the truly global nature of the youthful forward looking spirit of the Olympic community. She will lead our beloved Olympic movement with conviction, integrity and always putting our values first. She has a young voice that resonates with the young generation. And that’s why I confidently say that the Olympic movement will be in the best of hands tomorrow.”
President Bach has served the Olympic movement for an eight-year term since 2013. In 2021, he secured a renewable four-year term to continue leading the movement until 2025.
The ceremony happened on the Olympic movement’s 131st birthday.
Kirsty Coventry
The 41-year-old global icon was elected to office earlier this year in March after defeating six other candidates. She worked with Bach over the past few months to ensure a smooth transition and prepare for her new role. In a cozy memory lane video shown during her official inauguration, she recalled always dreaming of competing in the Olympics since childhood, and indeed, years later, she remains Africa’s most decorated Olympian, having represented Zimbabwe in five Olympic Games. She has seven Olympic medals from swimming. In her speech, she thanked everyone who guided her throughout her athletic career and mentored her into sports leadership roles.
She was outspoken about her family’s support. She ended her speech by urging unity as she assumes office, reflecting on the strength of a cobweb, which is only as strong as its weakest strand.
Handover
Bach explained to Kirsty the ceremonial importance of the handover, an Olympic Key that has been passed down through generations. The hour-long ceremony featured moments of classical musical performances. She will oversee the 2028 US Olympics and is key in choosing the following host countries.
