Dame Katherine Grainger has made history by becoming the first female chair of the British Olympic Association (BOA) in its 119-year history. The accomplished rowing champion was elected by 46 members of the National Olympic Committee and will take over the role from Hugh Robertson in early 2025.
Grainger is a remarkable athlete with an unprecedented Olympic career, being the only British woman to win medals in five consecutive Olympic games. Her extensive experience in sports leadership and her deep connection to the Olympic movement make her an ideal candidate for this prestigious position.
Following her 20-year rowing career, Grainger has already established herself as a significant leader in sports administration. She previously served as chair of UK Sport, where she worked to create a new direction for Olympic and Paralympic sports. Her upcoming transition to the BOA chair role represents another milestone in her continued commitment to supporting and developing British athletics.
In her statement about the appointment, Grainger emphasized the profound impact of the Olympics on her life. “The Olympics has been central to my life for nearly 30 years,” she said. She reflected on her experiences as an athlete and her understanding of sport’s transformative power, noting that she has learned the importance of collaboration in enabling Olympic sports to thrive in the UK.
Andy Anson, the CEO of the BOA, praised Grainger’s appointment, describing her as an “esteemed figure in high-performance sport” and acknowledging her reputation as both a steadfast leader and one of Britain’s greatest Olympians. The organization is particularly looking forward to working with her during the upcoming Milano-Cortina 2026 and Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games.
Team GB has characterized Grainger as a “highly respected figure in sport,” highlighting her significant contributions both as an athlete and a sports administrator. Her election represents a landmark moment for women’s leadership in British sports organizations.
Before fully assuming her new role, Grainger will complete her current term with UK Sport. Her appointment signals a continued commitment to advancing Olympic sports and providing strategic leadership for Team GB.
Grainger’s journey from Olympic athlete to sports administrator demonstrates her ongoing dedication to the Olympic movement. Her unique perspective, having competed at the highest levels of international sports, positions her to provide valuable insights and leadership in her new role as BOA chair.
This historic appointment not only recognizes Grainger’s exceptional achievements but also represents a significant step towards greater gender diversity in sports leadership. As the first woman to lead the British Olympic Association, she is poised to inspire future generations of athletes and administrators.
