IOC Endorses Boxing's Participation in 2028 LA Olympics
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Synopsis
The IOC executive board has recommended boxing's inclusion in the 2028 Los Angeles Games. The final decision awaits confirmation during the IOC's upcoming session in Greece, with Thomas Bach expressing confidence in a positive outcome.
Key Takeaways
- The IOC has recommended boxing for the 2028 Olympics.
- Final approval will be decided in Greece.
- Provisional recognition of World Boxing was a key factor.
- The IBA was suspended in 2019, leading to World Boxing's formation.
- Boris van der Vorst emphasizes commitment to Olympic values.
Lausanne, March 17 (NationPress) The International Olympic Committee (IOC) executive board has put forth a recommendation for boxing to be featured in the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles. While the final verdict will be rendered by the IOC during this week's session in Greece, outgoing president Thomas Bach is optimistic about its approval.
Boxing was initially omitted from the agenda for the LA Olympics, which was unveiled in 2022. However, following World Boxing's provisional recognition as the sport's governing body, the IOC confirmed its recommendation.
"With the provisional acknowledgment of World Boxing in February, we are now in a position to make this decision. This recommendation will be presented at the session, but I am very confident that it will receive approval, ensuring that boxers worldwide have the certainty of participating in the Olympic Games in LA,” stated Bach during the IOC Executive Board (EB) meeting conducted virtually from the Olympic House.
The International Boxing Association (IBA) was suspended in 2019 due to governance, financial, refereeing, and ethical issues, leading to the establishment of World Boxing in April 2023.
World Boxing held its inaugural formal meeting with the IOC in May 2024, and on February 26, 2025, it was granted provisional recognition by the IOC as the International Federation (IF) governing the global sport of boxing within the Olympic Movement.
The President of World Boxing, Boris van der Vorst, emphasized that participation in the Olympic Games is a privilege, and the governing body is fully committed to upholding the principles of the Olympic Charter.
“This decision is crucial for Olympic boxing and brings the sport closer to being reinstated in the Olympic program. I am confident it will be well-received by everyone involved in boxing globally, who recognizes the importance of maintaining boxing's role within the Olympic Movement,” he remarked.
“World Boxing acknowledges that inclusion in the Olympic Games is a privilege, not a right. I assure the IOC that should boxing be reinstated for LA28, World Boxing will be a dependable partner, committed to the values of the Olympic Charter," said President Boris.
