Vladimir Putin congratulated Kirsty Coventry on her election as IOC President, emphasizing her “unique experience”. He expressed confidence in her ability to advance Olympic ideals. Russia aims for reinstatement in upcoming games and Belarusian President Lukashenko hopes for mutual understanding in sports, while Ukrainian officials seek a focus on peace and inclusivity.
On Thursday, Russian President Vladimir Putin extended his congratulations to Kirsty Coventry of Zimbabwe upon her election as the President of the International Olympic Committee (IOC). He expressed that her “unique experience” would play a pivotal role in furthering the Olympic movement. Putin noted that the election results signify her significant authority within the sports community.
In his message on the Kremlin’s website, Putin stated, “I am certain that your unique experience and interest in the real advancement of the noble Olympic ideals will ensure your success in such a responsible position.” Notably, Putin was the first global leader to contact Coventry’s predecessor, Thomas Bach, following his election in 2013.
Moscow aims for its athletes to be fully reinstated in future Olympic Games, particularly following the ban instated due to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022. A limited number of athletes from both Russia and Belarus, who supported the invasion, are allowed to compete in the 2024 Paris Games under neutral status.
Russian Sports Minister Mikhail Degtyarev expressed Moscow’s determination to pursue reinstatement, stating, “We are waiting, in this era of a new leader, for the Olympic movement to become stronger, more independent and more prosperous and that Russia will return to the Olympic podium.”
Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko emphasized his hope that Coventry would enhance “mutual understanding between nations and peoples and make sport accessible to all.” Conversely, Vadym Guttsait, head of Ukraine’s National Olympic Committee, who has actively advocated against Russian athlete participation in the Olympics, expressed optimism that Coventry would lead the IOC to focus on “peace, equality and inclusivity.”
In conclusion, Vladimir Putin’s congratulatory message to Kirsty Coventry highlights the significance of her election as IOC President and the expectations from various nations regarding her leadership. Russia seeks restoration in the Olympic community, while other nations emphasize the importance of peace and inclusivity in sports. The upcoming years under Coventry’s presidency will be pivotal in shaping the direction of the Olympic movement amidst geopolitical tensions.
Original Source: kfgo.com
