The International Olympic Committee (IOC) is currently on the lookout for a new governing body to take charge of Olympic boxing in time for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. This search comes in the wake of the International Boxing Association’s (IBA) removal from its role in the Tokyo 2021 and the upcoming Paris Olympic Games. The removal is a significant move by the IOC, signifying its discontent with the current leadership and management of Olympic boxing.
De-Recognition of the IBA
The IOC's decision to de-recognize the IBA has been affirmed by the Court of Arbitration for Sport. This move sheds light on the severe issues faced by the IBA, especially under its Russian leadership, which has been criticized for employing threatening language. These developments have raised concerns about the future of boxing in the Olympics, prompting the IOC to proactively look for alternative organizations to ensure the sport remains a part of the prestigious event.
With an aim to preserve boxing's place in the Olympic program, the IOC is in pursuit of a dependable International Federation to collaborate with by early 2025. This decision underscores the urgent need to sustain boxing as a fundamental part of the Olympics, highlighting the sport's widespread appeal and social inclusiveness.
World Boxing Steps In
In response to the turmoil, World Boxing, a new faction consisting of members from 27 different nations, has emerged as a potential contender for overseeing Olympic boxing. The group has already started hosting tournaments and is vigorously working to ensure boxing maintains its Olympic stature. Their efforts represent a beacon of hope for the sport’s future in the Olympic Games.
Meanwhile, the IBA is contemplating an appeal against the Court of Arbitration for Sport's ruling to the Swiss Supreme Court. The IBA believes its recent efforts to reform have been unjustly overlooked, indicating a deeper rift between the organization and the broader Olympic community.
Voices from the Field
Comments from various stakeholders highlight the gravity of the situation and the widespread desire to see boxing remain an Olympic sport. An IOC representative emphasized the sport's global reach and its importance in fostering inclusivity, stating, "Because of the universality and high social inclusivity of boxing, the IOC wants it to continue to feature on the program of the Olympic Games."
The IOC further clarified their position, highlighting the immediate need for a credible body to oversee the sport: "Unfortunately, this is far from certain for the Olympic Games LA 2028 because, for governance reasons, the IOC is not in a position to organize another Olympic boxing tournament. To keep boxing on the Olympic program, the IOC needs a recognized and reliable International Federation as a partner, as with all the other Olympic sports."
On the other hand, World Boxing expressed urgency in rectifying the situation, acknowledging the looming deadline: "This is an urgent situation and the clock is ticking." They also issued a call to action, urging stakeholders to support their cause: "We urge every one of them that cares about boxers and the future of the sport to apply to join and support World Boxing in its efforts to ensure boxing remains at the heart of the Olympic Movement, before it is too late."
The IBA's response to the IOC’s criticisms highlighted their efforts to reform, which they believe have been disregarded: "The IBA feels that disregarding these and other improvements suggests a biased view."
Conclusion
The controversy surrounding the governance of Olympic boxing brings to light the intricate balance between maintaining the integrity of the sport and ensuring its continued presence in the Olympic Games. As the IOC seeks a new partner to manage boxing, the future of the sport at the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics hangs in the balance. With World Boxing stepping up as a viable successor and the IBA fighting to reclaim its position, the coming years will be pivotal in determining the fate of Olympic boxing. Regardless of the outcome, what remains clear is the universal support for the sport and the shared goal of preserving its legacy within the Olympic tradition.