A new chapter in Olympic history has begun. On 23 June, Olympic Day, Thomas Bach officially handed over the presidency of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) to Kirsty Coventry in a symbolic and emotional ceremony held at Olympic House in Lausanne, Switzerland.
Thomas Bach, Olympic fencing champion and the 9th IOC President since 2013, concluded his 12-year tenure by passing the iconic Olympic House key to Coventry — an Olympic swimming champion from Zimbabwe and a long-standing advocate for athletes. Kirsty Coventry becomes the first woman and the first African to lead the IOC, elected for an eight-year term during the 144th IOC Session held in Olympia, Greece.
More than 700 guests, including IOC Members, IF presidents, athletes, and international stakeholders, attended the ceremony, which featured tributes, reflections, and standing ovations. Bach was awarded the Olympic Order in Gold and named IOC Honorary President for Life.
In her inaugural speech, Coventry emphasised unity, inspiration, and the shared responsibility of the Olympic community. “It’s not just about a multi-sport event. It’s a platform to inspire. It’s a platform to change lives. And it’s a platform to bring hope,” she said.
Representing the ISMF, President Regula Meier was present at the ceremony: “It fills me with pride to have witnessed this historic moment. The ceremony was truly dignified, and I am deeply moved. We had an excellent collaboration with Thomas Bach, and I look forward to working closely with Kirsty Coventry in the future. As Kirsty so aptly said: ‘I am, because we are.’ This spirit of unity and shared purpose resonates deeply with me.”
The ISMF extends its warm congratulations to President Coventry and expresses its continued commitment to the Olympic values under her leadership.
© Photo: ISMF and IOC
