The International Olympic Committee (IOC) is actively seeking a new governing body to oversee boxing for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, following the removal of the International Boxing Association (IBA) from its role in the organization of Olympic boxing events. This decision marks a crucial moment for the sport, which faces an uncertain future in the Olympic Games without a recognized and reliable International Federation (IF) to govern its inclusion.
IBA's Removal and the Search for a New Governing Body
In a significant move, the IBA was stripped of its duties for the Tokyo 2021 Olympics and will not be involved in the upcoming Paris Olympic Games. This decision came after the Court of Arbitration for Sport confirmed the IOC's resolution to de-recognize the IBA—a ruling prompted by concerns over governance, including criticisms towards the IBA's Russian leadership for employing threatening language.
The IOC is committed to preserving boxing as part of the Olympic program, acknowledging the sport's wide appeal and high social inclusivity. However, to achieve this goal, a recognized and dependable IF is required. Consequently, the IOC aims to partner with a new organization by early 2025, ensuring boxing’s continued presence at the Olympic Games.
World Boxing Steps Into the Ring
In response to the void left by the IBA's ousting, a new faction called World Boxing has emerged, backed by members from 27 nations. This group has begun hosting tournaments and is aggressively working to secure boxing's Olympic status. World Boxing emphasizes the urgency of the situation, rallying support to safeguard boxing's cherished position in the Olympic Movement before it's too late.
IBA's Stance and Possible Appeal
The IBA, however, is not stepping down quietly. The organization is considering an appeal against the Court of Arbitration for Sport's ruling to the Swiss supreme court. In defense of its position, the IBA contends that its recent efforts toward reform and improvement have been unjustly disregarded, suggesting a biased perception against it.
Quotes Reflecting the Ongoing Struggle
An IOC representative highlighted the significance of boxing to the Olympic program, 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." However, the issue of governance looms large, with the IOC acknowledging that "for governance reasons, the IOC is not in a position to organize another Olympic boxing tournament." Establishing a partnership with a globally recognized and reliable IF by early 2025 is deemed crucial for boxing's survival in the Olympics.
World Boxing has made it clear that time is of the essence, noting, "This is an urgent situation and the clock is ticking." They urge stakeholders and enthusiasts to rally support, stating, "We urge everyone 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."
Despite facing significant challenges, the IBA remains hopeful, expressing frustration over perceived biases. "The IBA feels that disregarding these and other improvements suggests a biased view," a representative from the IBA remarked, signaling the organization's intent to fight for its recognition and role within the Olympic framework.
The Path Forward
The ongoing struggle for control and recognition within the sphere of Olympic boxing underscores the complexities and challenges of governing international sports. As the IOC seeks a new partner to safeguard boxing’s Olympic legacy, the future of this beloved sport hangs in the balance. The actions taken by the involved parties in the coming months will be pivotal in determining boxing's status in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics and beyond. With the IOC's determination, World Boxing's emergence, and the IBA's defiant stance, the road to resolution promises to be a contest as compelling as the sport itself.