Kirsty Coventry Leads Opening of Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics
London, 6 February 2026 – International Olympic Committee (IOC) President Kirsty Coventry has taken centre stage in Milan today, carrying the Olympic flame through the city’s heart just hours before the Opening Ceremony of the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Games. The Zimbabwean former swimming champion, who made history as the first woman and first African to lead the IOC, received the torch from American rowing trailblazer Anita DeFrantz in an emotional handover that signalled the final countdown to the Games.
A New Era of Leadership
Since her election to the presidency, Coventry has moved quickly to implement her “Fit For The Future” agenda. Speaking at a press conference in Milan this week, she warned that the Olympic programme must undergo “uncomfortable” changes to remain relevant to future generations. Her administration is currently reviewing the venue spread and the inclusion of various sports to ensure the sustainability of the movement heading toward Los Angeles 2028 and Brisbane 2032.
Coventry has also addressed several geopolitical challenges facing the Games. She recently urged spectators to remain respectful toward all athletes, specifically addressing potential backlash against American competitors, and suggested that the IOC is maintaining a “neutral ground” regarding the potential return of Russian athletes for the 2028 Summer Games.
Key Facts: Kirsty Coventry
Kirsty Coventry remains Zimbabwe’s most decorated athlete, having transitioned from a world-record-breaking swimming career into high-level international sports administration and national politics.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Kirsty Leigh Coventry Seward |
| Date of Birth | 16 September 1983 |
| Nationality | Zimbabwean |
| Current Role | President of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) |
| Government Position | Minister of Youth, Sport, Arts and Recreation (Zimbabwe) |
| Olympic Achievement | Two-time Olympic Gold Medallist (200m Backstroke) |
| Major Awards (2026) | Charles McCaffree Award (CSCAA) |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Kirsty Coventry’s stance on climate change?
President Coventry recently stated that the IOC must “be better” regarding climate change. This follows her receipt of a petition signed by over 21,000 individuals calling for more robust environmental protections within the Olympic framework.
How did she become the IOC President?
Following a successful career as a competitive swimmer and years of service within the IOC Athletes’ Commission, Coventry was elected as President, becoming the first woman and the first African to hold the position. She succeeded the previous administration with a mandate to modernise the Games.
What are the “uncomfortable changes” she mentioned?
Coventry is referring to a comprehensive review of the Olympic sports programme. This may involve removing long-standing events or changing how venues are utilised to reduce costs and environmental impact, ensuring the Games remain viable for host cities in the future.