Boxing Australia welcomes IOC’s provisional recognition of World Boxing

Boxing Australia welcomes IOC’s provisional recognition of World Boxing

Boxing Australia (BA) welcomes the decision by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) to grant World Boxing provisional recognition, a crucial step in securing the sport’s future within the Olympic Movement.

World Boxing was formed to address long-standing concerns over governance, transparency and integrity in the sport. With the IOC’s provisional recognition, the organisation is now poised to demonstrate its commitment to the values set forth by the Olympic Charter, as well as ensuring fair competition, financial accountability and athlete safety.

The move has been widely welcomed across BA as a vital development as the sport continues to strive to be part of the program for the Los Angeles Olympic Games in 2028.

"Representing my country in two Olympic Games has been an incredible honour and this marks an exciting milestone for boxing,” said Caitlin Parker OLY, who won bronze for Australia in Paris.

“It restores hope for current and future athletes aspiring to compete at the Olympics. The IOC's decision to recognise World Boxing is a significant step forward and keeps the dream alive for the sport."

Boxing Australia President Phillip Goodes said BA fully supported World Boxing as the sport’s International Federation within the Olympic Movement, with 78 countries already signed on as members.

“This is an important step for boxing globally and we are confident World Boxing will meet the necessary standards to secure full IOC recognition,” Goodes said.

“We at Boxing Australia are fully behind the efforts to promote a transparent and athlete-centred future for the sport.”

Dinah Glykidis, BA Chief Executive Officer, said boxing was a hugely important sport in the Australian Olympic sphere and its athletes deserved a governing body that will give them every chance to compete for Olympic gold.

"We are overjoyed for the athletes who dedicate their lives to our sport. The Olympic Games is the mountain top and this recognition means they can continue to dream of representing their country at the highest level," Glykidis said.

"Our sport brings together athletes from so many diverse backgrounds and has the power to change lives through dedication and discipline. We thank the IOC for recognising its ongoing importance for so many communities around the globe.”

BA will continue to work closely with World Boxing, the IOC, athletes and key stakeholders as the process towards full recognition and potential reinstatement to the Olympic program unfolds.

ENDS

For further information and interview requests, please contact media@boxing.org.au.