The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has given boxing a new lease on life with a unanimous vote at its 144th session, confirming the sport's inclusion in the 2028 Los Angeles Summer Games. This decision marks the end of years of uncertainty about boxing's future at the Olympics.
After granting provisional recognition to World Boxing last month—a body that emerged in 2023 and now includes over 80 national federations—the IOC has paved the way for a new era in the sport. This shift followed the IOC's management of boxing at the 2024 Paris Games after it stripped its previous overseer of recognition due to governance shortcomings.
IOC President Thomas Bach stated, "I thank you for the approval of having boxing back. We can look forward to a great boxing tournament." His remarks reflect the collective commitment of athletes, coaches, officials, and boxing leaders around the world.
Looking ahead to Los Angeles, only athletes from national federations affiliated with World Boxing will be eligible to compete during the qualification events, ensuring a fresh and dynamic tournament. This renewed focus celebrates boxing's storied legacy while embracing modern governance and global collaboration, inspiring a new generation of sports enthusiasts and changemakers.
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IOC: Boxing earns spot on program at 2028 Los Angeles Summer Games
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