The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has elected its first female member from Iran, marking a historic milestone for both the country and the global Olympic movement. Soraya Aghaei was elected on February 4, 2026, becoming not only the first Iranian woman to join the IOC but also its youngest current member.
Historic Election To The IOC
Soraya Aghaei was elected as the 107th member of the “International Olympic Committee” by an overwhelming 95–2 vote. She is only the third-ever Iranian representative to be part of the IOC and the first since 2004. Her election reflects the IOC’s continued push towards inclusivity, generational renewal, and broader geographic representation within its ranks.
Profile Of Soraya Aghaei
At 30 years of age, Aghaei is a member of the Iranian Olympic Committee’s Athletes’ Commission. She made history earlier as Iran’s first female badminton Olympian, competing at the “Tokyo Summer Olympics”. Her sporting background and athlete-centric experience position her as a key voice in deliberations concerning athlete welfare and governance reforms within the Olympic system.
Changing Dynamics Of IOC Membership
Aghaei joins the IOC at a time of significant institutional transformation. The body is currently led by “Kirsty Coventry”, the first woman president in the IOC’s 132-year history. Women now constitute 45% of the total IOC membership, reflecting steady progress towards gender balance. Aghaei also became the youngest IOC member at the same session where Afghanistan’s “Samira Asghari” was re-elected for a second term.
Important Facts
- The International Olympic Committee was founded in 1894.
- IOC members elect host cities for future Olympic Games.
- Women currently form about 45% of IOC membership.
- The 2036 Summer Olympics host will be decided by the IOC.
Term And Broader Significance
Aghaei’s eight-year term will include voting rights in key IOC decisions, including the selection of the host city for the 2036 Summer Games. Her election is also symbolically important for Iran, particularly women athletes, highlighting expanding representation from West Asia in global sports governance.