Newly elected International Olympic Committee (IOC) President Kirsty Coventry highlighted China's groundbreaking work in Olympic legacy development during a virtual media roundtable ahead of her official term commencement. The Zimbabwean swimming legend, who begins her leadership role this week, emphasized Beijing's unique status as the world's first 'Dual Olympic City' following its 2008 Summer and 2022 Winter Games.
'China's approach to repurposing Olympic infrastructure sets a global benchmark,' Coventry told CGTN Sports Scene's Zhu Mandan. The two-time Olympic gold medalist specifically noted Beijing's innovative reuse of competition venues and urban development strategies that continue benefiting communities years after the Games.
Drawing from her childhood memories of watching the 1992 Barcelona Olympics, Coventry stressed the importance of sustainable planning: 'What impressed me most is how China maintains Olympic venues as active community assets rather than letting them become relics.' This endorsement comes as nations worldwide seek cost-effective models for hosting major sporting events.
Beijing's Olympic Park, which transformed former competition sites into public recreational spaces and business hubs, serves as a prime example of China's legacy strategy. Sports analysts suggest such initiatives could influence future host cities' planning approaches under Coventry's leadership.
