Coventry Takes Office as IOC’s First Female and African President
GENEVA (AP) — Kirsty Coventry steps into her role as the International Olympic Committee’s inaugural female and African president this Monday, facing a world that has changed significantly since her election three months ago.
Los Angeles: The Host City for 2028
Los Angeles, set to host the upcoming Summer Games in July 2028, is currently navigating challenges. Once referred to as a “trash heap” by U.S. President Donald Trump, the city is preparing to welcome athletes from over 200 countries.
Visa Concerns for Athletes
Many participants in the LA Olympics may be aware of military deployments happening against the wishes of local leaders. Furthermore, some countries, including Coventry’s Zimbabwe, may find themselves on a travel ban list initiated by Trump, although Olympic participants are slated to receive exemptions to enter the U.S. Recently, Senegal’s women’s basketball team faced visa denials for their U.S. training session.
Diplomatic Engagements Ahead
Establishing a direct relationship with Trump is a top priority for Coventry, possibly through an upcoming sports event. The outgoing IOC president, Thomas Bach, has highlighted the importance of Olympic diplomacy throughout his tenure, which has been marred by various scandals and crises.
A Collaborative Leadership Approach
On her first full day as president, Coventry has convened closed meetings for the IOC’s 109 members, focusing on future strategies under the theme “Pause and Reflect.” Emphasizing collaboration, Coventry aims to empower members to contribute to decision-making, a shift from Bach’s tightly controlled leadership style.
Future Hosting Decisions
Coventry’s election is perceived as beneficial for India, which is interested in hosting the 2036 Summer Olympics. Her relationship with Nita Ambani, a key figure in promoting India’s Olympic ambitions, places the hosting decision at the forefront of her agenda.
Addressing Major Issues
During her presidency, Coventry will face challenges such as potentially reinstating Russian athletes who are currently sidelined due to the ongoing military invasion of Ukraine. Additionally, she plans to establish a task force to address gender equality and eligibility in sports, ensuring that “Olympic Values” of inclusion and parity remain at the forefront.
