IOC’s Coventry Backs Protection of Female Category, Eyes Reform

(The Post News)– Newly appointed IOC president Kirsty Coventry has wasted no time signalling a shift in tone and leadership. Just days into her historic role as the first woman to head the Olympic movement, Coventry confirmed that the IOC will take a more hands-on approach to the complex issue of gender in sport, emphasising the need to protect the female category.

Speaking after chairing her first executive board meeting, Coventry said the group had unanimously agreed to establish a working group tasked with shaping a clearer, science-based policy on gender eligibility. Previously, such decisions were left to individual sporting federations. “It’s time the IOC takes the lead,” she said, adding that the working group should begin “within weeks” and bring together experts and international federations to find consensus.

While acknowledging that needs will differ by sport, Coventry stressed the importance of fairness, rooted in scientific rigour, not political noise. “The message is clear: protect women’s sport, but do so thoughtfully,” she said.

Coventry also addressed concerns around the 2028 Los Angeles Games amid tensions between US immigration policies and international participation. Despite reports of Cuban and Senegalese athletes being denied visas, she expressed full confidence in the Games’ success, citing strong support from all levels of American government. “The IOC won’t bow to political pressure,” she noted, affirming the organisation’s commitment to global inclusivity.

Looking ahead, Coventry outlined plans for a second working group to reassess Olympic host timelines, alongside goals to boost revenue, reduce costs, and explore the use of AI in IOC operations.