Kirsty Coventry stepped into her new role as head of the International Olympic Committee during Monday's ceremony. Thomas Bach passed leadership duties over to the former swimmer from Zimbabwe. She makes history as the first woman and first person from Africa to run the Olympic organization. Coventry beat six other people during voting back in March. Her eight-year term starts officially on Tuesday.
The 2028 Los Angeles Games present major headaches for Coventry right away. Protests about immigration raids have hit the city hard. Government officials at different levels disagree about many issues. These problems worry Olympic leaders who usually focus on other upcoming events. Coventry studied and swam at Auburn University, which helps her understand American culture.
Money matters will demand lots of attention from the new leader. Several major sponsors left the Olympics during recent months. The IOC already secured billions for future games but needs more deals. Coventry wants to create fresh ways for companies to support Olympic events. The privately funded LA Olympics offer good chances to test new ideas.
Bach praised Coventry during the handover ceremony on Monday. He gave her a special golden key that represents her new authority. Coventry won seven Olympic medals during her swimming career. She captured gold medals at Athens and Beijing Games. Olympic officials believe she brings the right skills to lead their worldwide movement forward.
The 2028 Los Angeles Games present major headaches for Coventry right away. Protests about immigration raids have hit the city hard. Government officials at different levels disagree about many issues. These problems worry Olympic leaders who usually focus on other upcoming events. Coventry studied and swam at Auburn University, which helps her understand American culture.
Money matters will demand lots of attention from the new leader. Several major sponsors left the Olympics during recent months. The IOC already secured billions for future games but needs more deals. Coventry wants to create fresh ways for companies to support Olympic events. The privately funded LA Olympics offer good chances to test new ideas.
Bach praised Coventry during the handover ceremony on Monday. He gave her a special golden key that represents her new authority. Coventry won seven Olympic medals during her swimming career. She captured gold medals at Athens and Beijing Games. Olympic officials believe she brings the right skills to lead their worldwide movement forward.
