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Kirsty Coventry clarifies comments on Olympic athlete payment policies

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 2, 2026, 1:08 AM

Last updated Jun 2, 2026

Kirsty Coventry clarifies comments on Olympic athlete payment policies
Summary

IOC President Kirsty Coventry addressed backlash over her recent comments regarding athlete payment at the Olympics. Speaking at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan, she stated her opposition to paying athletes, specifically concerning prize money, arguing it benefits only a few. Coventry emphasized the IOC's role in providing broader support for all athletes through initiatives like the Olympic Solidarity program. Athletes, including Cameron McEvoy and Matthew Richards, responded critically to her stance, with proposals for appearance fees and concerns about commercialization of their likenesses. The IOC is set to meet later this month to discuss any potential changes to current policies.

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Yahoo Sports
By the Numbers
  • •Coventry claims she opposes athlete prize money at the Olympics.
  • •She emphasizes the need for broader support for athletes' journeys.
  • •Athletes express dissatisfaction with her remarks and proposed fairness.
  • •IOC meeting later this month may address athlete compensation policies.
  • •Olympic Solidarity program supports athletes with scholarships and funding.
Latest Updates
  • 1:08 AMYahoo Sports — What IOC President Kirsty Coventry says about paying Olympic athletes
What they're saying
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Should there be prize money? What about appearance fees for participating in a Games?

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