Women in the sports world are making significant strides in taking on leadership roles, which in turn has led to better policies, increased investments, record attendance, and more media coverage of women’s sporting events. This leadership is also addressing important issues such as the pay gap, violence, and abuse.
Despite these advancements, barriers and gender bias still exist in the sports world. According to a 2023 survey by the Sport Integrity Global Alliance, only 26.9% of executive positions in international sport federations are held by women. Additionally, only three out of 31 International Sports Federations surveyed had women in leadership roles.
The International Olympic Committee has made progress in terms of gender equality, with 41% of its members being female and more diversity in age and regional representation. In 2022, gender-equal representation on IOC commissions was achieved, marking a historic high and a 100% increase since 2013.
The World Athletics Council has also seen growth in the number of women members, reaching gender parity ahead of schedule and setting goals to increase the number of female coaches by 2025. However, despite these advancements, a gender gap still exists among coaches and leadership roles within athletes’ entourages.
Looking towards the future, efforts are being made to increase the representation of women in leadership roles such as Chef de Mission, Technical Official, and coach. While progress is being made, there is still work to be done to achieve true gender equality in the sports world.