The Executive Board of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) has granted provisional recognition to World Boxing as an International Federation (IF) within the Olympic Movement, overseeing the global sport of boxing.

World Boxing now has 78 member countries, reflecting strong global support for boxing’s place in the Olympic Games.

Following the announcement, World Boxing President Boris van der Vorst remarked: “Today is significant for everyone connected to the sport of boxing within the Olympic Movement. Keeping boxing in the Olympic Games is crucial for the future of our sport, from the grassroots to professional boxing, and this decision brings us closer to our goal of restoring boxing to the Olympic program.

“Getting to this point has required immense effort from many people around the world, and none of this would have been possible without the dedication and hard work of all the National Federations, boxers, coaches, officials, and leaders in boxing who have worked together to make this a reality.

“The IOC’s decision is a significant step forward, but we all recognize that being part of the Olympic Movement is a privilege and a responsibility, not an entitlement. There’s still much work to be done, and we remain committed to working together to build a brighter future for our sport and ensure boxing stays at the heart of the Olympic Movement.”

During the WBC Convention in Hamburg, Germany, last December, WB President Boris van der Vorst presented his pledge to fight for boxing’s inclusion in the Olympics, with WBC President Mauricio Sulaimán also voicing their full support.

The WBC congratulates World Boxing and President Boris van der Vorst for their outstanding efforts to advance the sport.