Archive · 14 Nov 2025
IOC President Coventry Outlines Reform Agenda, Pauses Esports Plans
The head of the Olympics, Kirsty Coventry, is taking a step back to think about how the Olympic Games can be better in the future.
She has put on hold plans to include video games (Esports) in the Olympics for now because they need to figure out the best way to do it.
They are also looking carefully at rules about who can compete in women's sports to make sure it stays fair for female athletes.
This involves experts studying the science behind it.
The goal is to listen to everyone and make sure the Olympics are ready for whatever comes next.
IOC President Kirsty Coventry has initiated a 'Pause and Reflect' phase for the organization's future planning.
Plans for the IOC's entry into Esports have been put on hold for re-evaluation by a smaller internal group.
A dedicated expert working group is examining the participation of transgender women to protect the female category in sports.
Coventry emphasized a collaborative approach, focused on listening and collective input for the 'Fit for the Future' initiative.
Four working groups have been formed to address the Youth Olympic Games, Olympic program, commercial partnerships, and female category protection.
- Who
- IOC President Kirsty Coventry
- What
- Outlining a reform agenda including pausing plans for Esports entry and reviewing policies on transgender women's participation.
- When
- During her visit to China, with the "Pause and Reflect" phase initiated on June 24 and the "Fit for the Future" initiative launched in September.
- Where
- During an interview with Xinhua in China.
- Why
- To re-evaluate the IOC's readiness for the future, ensure collective input, and responsibly navigate new territories like Esports and complex issues like gender participation.
Proceed with Esports
Cautious approach to Esports
Inclusion in the Olympics
Proceed with Esports
There is a huge opportunity in Esports, with potential for growth and engagement.
Cautious approach to Esports
The IOC needs to carefully re-evaluate how to responsibly enter the Esports space, as it's new territory with many unanswered questions about implementation and format.
- IOC President
- Kirsty Coventry
- Initiative Name
- Fit for the Future
- Working Groups Formed
- Youth Olympic Games, Olympic program, commercial partnerships, protection of the female category
- Esports Review
- Smaller internal group reviewing responsible entry into Esports space
- Transgender Participation Review
- Expert working group examining protection of the female category