Yesterday, Kirsty Coventry was elected as new President of the International Olympic Committee – IOC.
She became the first woman and first African to be elected for the biggest job in the world of sports. She is Sports-minister in Zimbabwe and her active sports career has given her two Olympic gold medals in swimming.
Covenry gets a mandate over 8 years until 2033. The 41 year old new President has her own way to handle a lot of strong men that believes they have unlimitied power.
-I have been dealing with, let’s say difficult men in high positions since I was 20 years old. What I have learned is that communication will be key, she said.
In several rounds of elections she finally got the exact majority needed, 49 votes. Coventry will replace Thomas Bach on 23 June, the Olympic Day.
-I will make all of you very, very proud and hopefully extremely confident in the decision you have taken. Coventry said in her speech of acceptance.
-Now we have some work to do together!
FIB has sent a congratulatory letter to the new President Coventry!