“The Olympic Games and the values ​​they embody are our most valuable asset. We understand politics and know that we do not operate in a vacuum, but our playing field is sport, a space where every athlete can compete without being hindered by politics,” she declared.

However, during the opening of the 145th IOC session, the seven-time Olympic swimming medalist made no direct reference to Russia, whose athletes are still largely absent from major multi-sport events.

Only 13 Russian athletes will be able to compete in the Milan-Cortina 2026 Games, which begin on Friday, under a neutral flag and in individual events.

The 42-year-old Zimbabwean official has faced criticism for her handling of political issues, as the same standards are not applied to the status of Israeli athletes affected by the offensive in Gaza.

In her remarks, she also remained silent on the thorny issue of the participation of transgender and intersex athletes in women’s competitions.

The Winter Games will bring together nearly 3,000 competitors (1,533 men and 1,338 women) from 93 countries from February 6 to 22, who will participate in 16 events across eight sports.

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