COSTA NAVARINO, Greece: Boxing has been officially confirmed as part of the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics after a unanimous vote by International Olympic Committee (IOC) members on Thursday.
This decision follows the recognition of World Boxing as the governing body for the sport, a key move after years of division and challenges over the sport’s administration.
Boxing had faced uncertainty in recent years, especially after the IOC distanced itself from the Russian-led International Boxing Association due to concerns over governance, financial issues, and ethics.
The IOC organised the boxing tournaments for the Tokyo 2020 and Paris 2024 Games after taking control. However, with World Boxing now overseeing the sport, the IOC has given boxing the green light for the 2028 Olympics.
World Boxing President Boris van der Vorst expressed gratitude for the IOC’s trust, pledging to maintain high standards of governance and transparency.
Olympic champions like Wladimir Klitschko, who won gold in 1996, celebrated the decision, emphasizing the importance of boxing’s Olympic presence for future generations.
This marks a significant moment in the final days of IOC President Thomas Bach’s 12-year tenure, with a new president to be elected later Thursday. – AFP
