Kirsty Coventry, President-elect of the International Olympic Committee (IOC), stated that Asia will be a key pillar in the evolution of the Olympic Movement. During her first official speech in this role, delivered before delegates from 45 Asian National Olympic Committees at the 45th General Assembly of the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) in Kuwait, Coventry emphasized the importance of a strong and united Asia, backed by a solid OCA.
Coventry, who will take over the IOC presidency on June 23, 2025, highlighted her commitment to actively listen to National Olympic Committees (NOCs) and athletes, asserting that only through dialogue can a more inclusive, dynamic, and future-ready Olympic Movement be built.

A vision of the future with Asia at the forefront

Coventry made it clear that Asia is not just an essential part of the Olympic Movement but its core for the coming years. In her address, she praised the region’s dynamism, innovation, and ambition—qualities that, according to her, set the standard for the evolution of Olympism. She also recalled her personal bond with Asia, citing the emotion she felt while marching into Beijing’s National Stadium during the Opening Ceremony of the Beijing 2008 Olympic Games. Since then, she noted, Asia has hosted three consecutive editions of the Olympic Games, strengthening its role as a global benchmark.
As the first woman and first IOC President from outside Europe and North America, Coventry stressed that athletes will remain at the center of her work, but that it is crucial to strengthen their path to Olympism through close cooperation with NOCs. She also noted that the future involves engaging with younger generations, highlighting the importance of events like the 2027 Olympic Esports Games in Riyadh. To this end, she reaffirmed her intention to listen, learn, and build a strong, modern Olympic Movement that stays connected with global society.