SENATORS’ STATEMENTS — Kirsty Coventry
February 10, 2026
Honourable senators, I rise today to recognize an extraordinary leader in the world of sport, Ms. Kirsty Coventry, the current president of the International Olympic Committee, or IOC.
Kirsty Coventry’s journey is one of remarkable achievement and historic firsts. Born in my native Zimbabwe, she became our nation’s most decorated Olympian, earning seven medals — including two gold medals — in swimming across four Olympic Games. Her excellence in the pool inspired countless young athletes, particularly in Africa, where Olympic success stories can be rare but powerfully symbolic.
In March 2025, Ms. Coventry was elected the tenth president of the IOC, the first woman and the first African to hold this prestigious position in the organization’s 130-year history. This milestone shattered long-standing barriers and marked a significant step toward greater diversity, inclusion and representation in global sports governance. As the youngest IOC president in over a century, she brings a fresh vision, athlete‑centred leadership and a deep understanding of the challenges facing sport today.
Under her presidency, the Olympic movement continues to emphasize its core values of unity, respect, fairness and the power of sport to transcend divisions. As we watch and reflect on events like the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympic Games, her emphasis on pushing boundaries while protecting the integrity of competition resonates strongly.
Canada, as a nation deeply committed to Olympic ideals, which include gender equality and international cooperation through sport, celebrates this historic leadership. Kirsty Coventry’s rise exemplifies what is possible when talent, determination and opportunity align. Her story encourages young Canadians and young people all over the world, especially girls and those from under-represented communities, to dream big in sport and beyond.
Colleagues, this gives me the opportunity to recognize the outstanding contributions of Senators Chantal Petitclerc, Marnie McBean and Marty Deacon — three remarkable Canadian women whose extraordinary achievements in sport, leadership and advocacy have inspired so many Canadians and have advanced the values of excellence, inclusion and healthy living as they continue to strengthen our nation’s commitment to the power of sport as a force for good.
On behalf of this chamber, I extend our warmest congratulations to President Kirsty Coventry. May her tenure advance the Olympic spirit, promote inclusivity and inspire generations to come.
In closing, we applaud the extraordinary courage, determination and excellence being displayed by our Canadian athletes at the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games. Their presence on the world stage has united our nation in pride and continues to exemplify the very best of this country we love. Thank you, meegwetch.
