Kirsty Coventry, Africa’s most decorated Olympian and the first candidate from the continent to run for president of the International Olympic Committee (IOC), has praised Morocco’s growing role in global sport.

“I think it's super exciting that Morocco is hosting AFCON this year and then the World Cup in a few years. It’s showing more interest from Africa in hosting major events. They’ve very successfully hosted the All-Africa Games, so they have what it takes,” she said.

Coventry, who attended the 2019 All-Africa Games in Morocco, spoke about the country’s passion for sport.

“You just have a sense of pride. And I would love to see all that culture and energy being shared with the rest of the world,” she said.

A frontrunner to succeed Thomas Bach, Coventry could become the first woman and first African to lead the IOC when elections take place from March 18-21.

“The power of sport goes beyond competition: it unites people, inspires generations, and transforms lives,” Coventry said.

“As IOC President, I will protect and strengthen this legacy while ensuring we remain innovative, inclusive, and athlete-centred.”

A seven-time Olympic medallist from Zimbabwe, Coventry has played a key role in shaping the future of the Games through her leadership in the IOC and is ready to lead the next chapter of the organization.