Boxing Out of The Olympics? IOC Rejects IBA Governing Body Application

The Association of Summer Olympic International Federations (ASOIF) has made it clear that it is in search of a new body to govern Olympic boxing, effectively sidelining the International Boxing Association (IBA).

The decision follows the International Olympic Committee's (IOC) decision in 2023 to cut ties with the IBA over concerns about its governance, finances, and ethical conduct. Issues arose regarding the IBA's handling of Russian fighters' participation amidst the conflict in Ukraine, as well as doubts about its management under leadership from Uzbekistan and Russia, reportedly with financial support from Gazprom.

The IOC's vote saw overwhelming support for removing the IBA, with 69 members in agreement, while only one vote was in favor of keeping it, and ten abstained. Despite the IBA's attempt to appeal, the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) upheld the IOC's decision.

The IBA expressed disappointment but reiterated its commitment to reform and transparency. Nevertheless, the IOC faces the challenge of finding a suitable replacement for the IBA to oversee boxing at the Olympics by 2025.

In the meantime, the IOC is focusing on organizing boxing events for the 2024 Paris Olympics. ASOIF is backing World Boxing, a non-profit international sports federation, as a potential successor to the IBA, aiming for them to be ready to take over by the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games.

ASOIF's President, Francesco Ricci Bitti, stressed the importance of finding a governing body that truly represents legitimate sports organizations, particularly national bodies.

The search for new governance in Olympic boxing reflects broader efforts to maintain the integrity and standards of the sport within the Olympic movement. The outcome of this process will shape the future of boxing at the Olympic Games, with stakeholders closely following developments as the IOC navigates this transition.