Boxing has been granted a place in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, marking a significant milestone for the sport. This decision came after the International Olympic Committee (IOC) unanimously voted in favor of including boxing in the upcoming Games. The sport had initially been excluded from the program when the schedule was first announced in 2022, but recent developments have reversed this decision.

A New Era for Boxing

The IOC provisionally recognized World Boxing as the sport's global governing body last month, paving the way for its inclusion in the Los Angeles Olympics. This decision was finalized during the IOC's ongoing session in Greece. Outgoing IOC president Thomas Bach expressed his gratitude, stating, "I thank you for the approval of having boxing back. We can look forward to a great boxing tournament."

Historical Context

Boxing has been a part of the Olympic program since 1904, with the exception of the 1912 Games. However, the sport's inclusion had been in jeopardy due to issues surrounding the International Boxing Association (IBA), which was suspended in 2019 over governance, finance, refereeing, and ethical concerns. The IOC had to step in to manage boxing during the past two Olympics.

The Role of World Boxing

World Boxing, formed in April 2023, has quickly gained recognition, now boasting 84 members across five continents, including Great Britain. The organization's president, Boris van der Vorst, emphasized the importance of this decision: "This is a great day for boxers, boxing, and everyone connected with our sport at every level across the world." He added, "World Boxing understands that being part of the Olympic Games is a privilege and not a right, and we are determined to be a trustworthy and reliable partner that will adhere to and uphold the values of the Olympic Movement."

Eligibility and Future Steps

The IOC has stipulated that only athletes whose national federations are members of World Boxing by the time of the qualification events for the 2028 Olympics will be eligible to compete in Los Angeles. The specific dates for the qualifying period are yet to be confirmed.

Looking Ahead

This decision not only ensures the continued presence of boxing in the Olympics but also sets the stage for a renewed focus on the sport's integrity and governance. As the boxing community looks forward to the 2028 Games, the emphasis will be on building a strong, ethical, and inclusive platform for athletes worldwide.