As a seven-time Olympic swimming medallist, Kirsty Coventry is no stranger to overcoming challenges. Now, as the new International Olympic Committee (IOC) president, she faces some of the most significant issues in global sport since the boycotts of the Moscow and Los Angeles Games in the 1980s. As she prepares to take over in June, several pressing matters await her attention.
Protecting Women’s Sport
A central pledge of Coventry’s leadership is safeguarding women’s sports and athletes. She has previously taken decisive action, such as removing Zimbabwe’s football federation board after reports of female referees being sexually harassed. She has also suggested a blanket ban on transgender athletes in female categories, citing scientific research that indicates transgender women may have a competitive advantage.
To address this, Coventry intends to establish a task force focused on protecting female sports. The issue gained global attention at a recent women’s boxing tournament when controversy surrounded athletes Imane Khelif and Lin Yu-ting. Coventry acknowledges the need for sensitivity in discussions about athletes with differences in sex development, while maintaining fairness for female competitors.
The Return of Russia?
The IOC currently suspends Russia’s Olympic body due to its control over certain sports councils in eastern Ukraine. However, Coventry opposes outright bans on countries and has announced plans for a task force to create guiding frameworks regarding Russian participation.
At present, only a small number of Russian athletes are competing as neutrals in international competitions. With the Milan Cortina Winter Olympics approaching, discussions around a potential Russian return remain complex, especially given the geopolitical landscape and its potential role in future peace negotiations.
Dealing with Political Uncertainty
Coventry steps into her role amid global political instability, including potential changes in U.S. leadership. If certain restrictions on international travel were implemented, it could pose challenges for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. However, Coventry has affirmed that the IOC will uphold its values of inclusivity and athlete safety. She remains confident that all 209 competing nations will be able to participate without obstruction.
Who Will Host the 2036 Olympics?
Securing a host for the 2036 Games is a major challenge. India, Qatar, Turkey, and several other nations are in contention. Coventry’s approach will determine whether the IOC continues with its policy of selecting a “preferred bid” for exclusive negotiations.
India is currently seen as a leading candidate, with strong backing from influential figures within the IOC. Coventry has signaled her intent to involve more IOC members in the decision-making process, potentially making the selection process more transparent and inclusive.
The Climate Crisis and Scheduling Adjustments
Climate change poses a growing challenge to the traditional scheduling of both the Summer and Winter Olympics. High temperatures in July and August have already forced adjustments, such as moving the marathon to Sapporo during the Tokyo 2020 Olympics. Future Games, especially in regions like India or Saudi Arabia, may require a shift to cooler months.
For the Winter Olympics, rising global temperatures threaten the feasibility of hosting in traditional locations. Coventry has emphasized the need for flexibility in Olympic scheduling and site selection to adapt to climate realities.
Keeping the Olympics Relevant
The Olympic Games have remained resilient despite shifting media and entertainment trends. The success of the Paris Games and the extension of NBC’s Olympic broadcasting rights through 2036 demonstrate continued global interest.
A key task for Coventry will be securing new top-tier sponsors, particularly from emerging markets such as India and Saudi Arabia. Additionally, she aims to ensure that the Olympics remain appealing to younger generations by integrating more youth-oriented sports and digital engagement strategies.
As she takes on the role of IOC president, Coventry faces a series of complex and high-stakes challenges. Her leadership will shape the future of the Olympic movement, determining how it navigates political, social, and environmental obstacles while remaining true to its core values.
