Sport Integrity Australia CEO, Dr Sarah Benson PSM, has welcomed the election of Kirsty Coventry of Zimbabwe as the 10th President of the International Olympic Committee (IOC).
Ms Coventry, a former Olympic swimmer, was elected to the role in the first round of voting at the 144th Session of the IOC in Greece.
Her election is significant; she is the first woman and the first African to be elected in the position.
Dr Benson congratulated Ms Coventry on her election along with her commitment to the Olympic Movement.
"Half of all competing athletes at the Paris 2024 Games were women, hence it is an historic moment for us to now be welcoming our first female IOC President.
"It's a moment that will empower young girls and women everywhere, particularly those involved in the sporting sphere.
"As a former elite athlete, who ended her own Olympic career only 9 years ago, Ms Coventry will bring an athlete focus to the position, along with fresh ideas, renewed commitment and passion to the role," Dr Benson said.
Upon her election to the position Ms Coventry said that young girl who first started swimming in Zimbabwe many years ago could never have dreamt of this moment.
"I am particularly proud to be the first female IOC President, and also the first from Africa," Ms Coventry said.
"I hope that this vote will be an inspiration to many people. Glass ceilings have been shattered today, and I am fully aware of my responsibilities as a role model."
Dr Benson also acknowledged the contribution made by outgoing President Thomas Bach in his tenure as President, as well as the strong field of candidates for the President position.
"Sport Integrity Australia looks forward to the role that Ms Coventry will now play in ensuring that the Olympic Movement continues to fight for clean, safe and fair sport across the globe."
