Olympic Chief Maintains Political Distance Amid Global Tensions
International Olympic Committee President Kirsty Coventry has publicly confirmed that the organisation has yet to establish formal communications with US President Donald Trump regarding preparations for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games. This revelation comes during a period of significant global political turbulence, with Trump making controversial international statements from Davos, Switzerland.
Strategic Avoidance of Geopolitical Commentary
Speaking at a press conference in Lausanne, Coventry made her position unequivocally clear regarding political involvement. "We are always aware of all the conversations that are happening and the geopolitics and political conversations happening," stated Coventry on Wednesday. "I want to make clear that it is not in our remit to comment on such matters. Our goal is to have all national Olympic committees represented at the Games."
The IOC president confirmed she has no current plans to meet with President Trump before the 2028 Olympics, which are projected to bring together more than 10,000 athletes from over 200 nations. This diplomatic distance stands in contrast to other sporting bodies, notably FIFA, whose president Gianni Infantino has maintained regular White House contact with Trump and controversially awarded him a peace prize in December.
Emphasis on Olympic Values Over Politics
Coventry used the platform to strongly reinforce core Olympic principles that seemed to serve as a subtle critique of current international discord. "We will work extremely hard in order to protect the Olympic Games and the platform for the Olympic Games," she emphasised. "Because it showcases how we can live and a way of understanding each other. You don't have to speak the same language in order to understand what each other is trying to achieve, or have an appreciation for each other. And for me, especially in today's world, these are values that we need to ensure we are protecting."
When questioned about potentially learning from FIFA's approach to political engagement, Coventry responded pragmatically: "If we weren't seeing good relations six months before the World Cup I would get worried. As we get closer to the Olympics you will see the relations continue ... and only get stronger."
Upcoming Engagement with US Administration
Despite the absence of communication with President Trump, Coventry confirmed that the IOC expects to meet with US Vice-President JD Vance before the opening ceremony of the Milano-Cortina Winter Olympics on 6th February. "As it pertains to the USA, we have not had formal communication just yet with the White House," she clarified. "We have seen the formal announcement of president Trump's team. We look forward to meeting the vice-president."
Winter Olympics Preparations Progressing
Meanwhile, Olympic Games executive director Christophe Dubi provided updates on preparations for the upcoming Winter Olympics, acknowledging some remaining work while expressing confidence in timely completion. "With sliding, we cannot deny that work needs to be done," admitted Dubi regarding the Cortina track. "For the hockey, the works inside the concourse and the temporary works which by nature are last minute, will be ready in a matter of days. But they are still working. There is a lot of confidence and workers on the ground. So we'll be ready to host the best athletes."
The IOC's careful navigation between necessary governmental engagement and steadfast commitment to apolitical sporting values reflects the complex reality of organising global events in today's politically charged climate, with Coventry's leadership demonstrating a clear prioritisation of Olympic unity over geopolitical commentary.
