In Milan, Kirsty Coventry, the International Olympic Committees (IOC) newly appointed president, presented a clear message regarding forthcoming modifications to the Olympic sports program. Coventry underscored the necessity for change, acknowledging it may prove challenging for certain stakeholders. Speaking at the IOC's annual meeting just days before the launch of the Milan Cortina Winter Olympics, she conveyed that her tenure would be marked by a thorough reassessment of the Olympic events portfolio.
Since her appointment, Coventry has initiated a comprehensive review process covering over 450 medal events across both Summer and Winter Games competitions, spanning more than 40 international sports federations. She highlighted the imperative of scrutinizing the current lineup candidly, distinguishing between what effectively serves the Olympic movement and what does not.
We must examine our sports, disciplines, and individual events critically and adapt to evolving societal contexts, Coventry said, emphasizing the importance of aligning the Games with contemporary sensibilities. She acknowledged that these evaluations would spark difficult conversations and entail making tough decisions.
The introduction of urban and youth-oriented sports in recent years, such as skateboarding and 3-on-3 basketball, alongside the debut of breakdancing at the Paris Games 18 months prior, exemplifies efforts to engage younger demographics. Coventry affirmed the commitment to sustaining the Games appeal to youth globally, ensuring that the event reflects their values and authentic experiences.
Her remarks suggested a strategic calibration between upholding cherished Olympic traditions and embracing innovation. This approach hints at possible challenges for historically entrenched sports like modern pentathlon when considering their status in future editions, including the 2028 Los Angeles Games. Coventry warned against complacency following the success of the Paris Olympics and indicated that the findings from the current program review will be disseminated later this year as part of her Fit For The Future initiative.
Concurrently, Coventry conveyed a pivot in the IOCs institutional focus toward emphasizing sports over political engagement. Drawing a distinction from her predecessor, Thomas Bach, who fostered close interactions with global political entities like the United Nations and promoted multilateralism, Coventry reaffirmed that the organizations primary mission remains centered on sport, even while recognizing the unavoidable political contexts in which it operates.
Her pragmatic stance includes preparing for significant diplomatic encounters, including an anticipated meeting with then-U.S. President Donald Trump amid preparations for the Los Angeles Summer Games.
Additionally, Coventry reaffirmed her commitment to championing core Olympic values of diversity and inclusion. Addressing a gathering of over one hundred IOC members, she praised their collective diverse backgrounds as a strength and signaled ongoing support for initiatives targeting health, education, and social inclusion. Her message emphasized empathy and purposeful action as essential elements of the Olympic spirit in confronting global challenges.