The International Mind Sports Association (IMSA) congratulates Kirsty Coventry on her election as the President of the International Olympic Committee (IOC). Her historic appointment as the first woman and the first African to hold this esteemed position marks a significant milestone in the Olympic movement.
Kirsty Coventry elected IOC president
A decorated Olympian with seven medals, including two golds in the 200-meter backstroke at the 2004 and 2008 Olympic Games, Kirsty Coventry has been a symbol of excellence in sports. Her leadership extends beyond competition, having served as Zimbabwe’s Minister of Youth, Arts, and Recreation and as an IOC member since 2013. Her dedication to sports governance and development has been widely recognized, and her tenure as IOC President promises to bring innovation, inclusivity, and progress to the Olympic community.
On behalf of the @imsasports family, which includes 9 international sports federations, I extend a warm welcome and heartfelt congratulations to Madam @KirstyCoventry on being elected as the new @Olympics
President Wishing you great success in leading the Olympic movement.… pic.twitter.com/nh0dYKmO6r— Nandan Jha (@Nandan_Jha4) March 21, 2025
Her leadership inspires confidence in the continued growth of sports worldwide, and her commitment to fostering excellence resonates across all disciplines, including mind sports. Intellectual competitions such as Chess, Bridge, Go, and Draughts contribute significantly to cognitive development and strategic thinking, aligning with the Olympic values of excellence, respect, and friendship. Her presidency brings hope for greater recognition and support for mind sports, further strengthening their role in shaping a future-ready generation.
IMSA wishes President Coventry great success in her tenure and looks forward to her leadership in shaping the future of the Olympic movement.