Lukashenko Congratulates Kirsty Coventry on Election as President of IOC

Kirsty Coventry, a two-time Olympic swimming champion and member of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) Executive Board from Zimbabwe, has been elected the new president of the IOC.

The elections took place during the 144th session of the organization, held at the Greek resort of Costa Navarino. To ensure the secrecy of the voting process, the election was conducted behind closed doors and was not broadcast. No electronic devices were allowed in the meeting hall during the voting process. Kirsty Coventry's term will begin on June 24, 2025, and will last for eight years. Thomas Bach, who has led the organization since September 10, 2013, will step down in June and will become the IOC's honorary president for life as decided by the 144th session. A total of seven candidates competed for the position of head of the organization.

Alexander Lukashenko congratulated Kirsty Coventry on her election as President of the International Olympic Committee, stating: "I am confident that under your leadership, the international Olympic movement will be able to make a significant contribution to strengthening friendship and mutual understanding between peoples and countries, as well as ensuring accessibility to sports for all. I wish you good health and success in serving the high goals and ideals of Olympism."