Chapter 9: The Pathway to Leadership in Elite Sports: Gender Diversity, Transition Challenges, and the Executive Journey

Leadership in elite sports, much like in other high-performance arenas, has historically been dominated by men. Despite increasing efforts towards inclusivity and gender equity across industries, the sports sector remains resistant to change. Antiquated notions of leadership, which prioritize masculine traits, continue to pervade sports organizations, leaving women underrepresented in executive positions. These gendered assumptions create an invisible yet formidable barrier for women seeking to rise to leadership positions. While women athletes are more visible than ever on the field, their presence in decision-making roles off the field remains marginal. This discrepancy highlights the persistence of gender inequality in sports leadership, despite long-standing advocacy and policy shifts aimed at promoting gender equity.