Coventry was elected to the role in the first round of voting at the 144th Session of the International Olympic Committee in Costa Navarino in Greece.

The Zimbabwean is the 10th person, and the first woman to hold the position since the IOC’s establishment in 1894, taking the reins from outgoing President Thomas Bach who formally steps down from the role in June after serving a maximum 12 years.

Australian Olympic Committee President Ian Chesterman congratulated Mrs Coventry on her election.

“Kirsty has over many many years, demonstrated a deep commitment to the Olympic Movement, and is well positioned to lead the International Olympic Committee in this next exciting phase for the organisation,” Mr Chesterman said.

“She is a contemporary athlete, her fifth and final Games was in Rio in 2016, not long ago, so she will resonate with the athletes of today which is absolutely vital for our Olympic Movement.

“Kirsty is an authentic leader and passionate about creating opportunities for the athletes of the world.

“Through her role as the IOC’s Chair of the Co-ordination Commission for Brisbane 2032, Kirsty has already had great involvement in and been a great supporter of the Brisbane Games, and we look forward to working with her and her team to grow the Olympic Movement in Australia and delivering the best possible Games in 2032.

“I also acknowledge the very strong field of candidates who nominated for the Presidency, and commend them for their passion and commitment to the Movement.

“I also acknowledge and congratulate outgoing President Thomas Bach for his enormous contribution to the IOC during his tenure as President.

“Thomas has led the IOC through some incredibly challenging times including the delivery of the Tokyo Games during a global pandemic and has also been a great friend to Australia over many years. We thank him for his service and friendship,” Mr Chesterman said.