In a call for unity and neutrality, Kirsty Coventry, president of the International Olympic Committee (IOC), emphasized the importance of preserving sport as a neutral space, where athletes can compete freely, without being affected by political issues. These statements were made during the 145th IOC session, held in Milan, Italy, a few days before the start of the Milan-Cortina 2026 Winter Games.
Coventry highlighted that, in an increasingly fragmented world, this principle is essential to maintain the Olympic Games as an inspiring event, where athletes from all over the world can come together and demonstrate the best of humanity. The president’s speech followed the line set by Sergio Mattarella, President of the Republic of Italy, who urged respect for the Olympic truce during his speech at the opening of the session, held at the Teatro de La Scala in Milan.We must focus on our essence. We are a sports organization. We understand politics and know that we do not operate in a vacuum. But our game is sport. That means keeping sport as a neutral ground, a place where all athletes can compete freely, without being held back by the politics or divisions of their governments.
Kirsty Coventry, IOC President
Mattarella also highlighted the power of the Olympic Games as an instrument to promote peace and mutual understanding, citing Martin Luther King’s famous phrase.We ask with stubborn determination that the Olympic truce be respected everywhere and that the unarmed force of sport silence the weapons.
Sergio Mattarella, President of the Republic of Italy
