Boxing has officially been included in the sports program for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, marking a significant return for the sport after concerns regarding its governance. The International Olympic Committee (IOC) made the announcement following a unanimous vote, ensuring that boxing will once again be part of the Olympic tradition.
Key Takeaways
- Boxing will be featured in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.
- The sport has been part of the Olympics since 1904, with the exception of 1912.
- The IOC's decision follows the provisional recognition of World Boxing as the sport's governing body.
- The U.S. hopes to replicate its past success in boxing at the Olympics.
A Historic Inclusion
Boxing has a rich history in the Olympic Games, having been included since the 1904 St. Louis Olympics. The sport has seen various nations excel over the years, with the United States historically leading in medal counts. The last time the U.S. topped the boxing medal table was in 1988 during the Seoul Olympics.
Despite its long-standing presence, boxing faced challenges in recent years, particularly with governance issues surrounding the International Boxing Association (IBA). The IBA was suspended in 2019 due to concerns over its management, leading the IOC to take control of the sport during the last two Olympic Games.
Recent Developments
The IOC's decision to include boxing in the LA28 Games comes after the provisional recognition of World Boxing, which was established in April 2023. This new governing body aims to restore integrity and transparency to the sport, addressing previous concerns that led to the IBA's suspension.
Outgoing IOC President Thomas Bach expressed gratitude for the approval, stating, "We can look forward to a great boxing tournament." This sentiment was echoed by Boris van der Vorst, President of World Boxing, who called it a "great day for boxers, boxing, and everyone connected with our sport."
The Road Ahead
With boxing officially back on the Olympic program, the focus now shifts to the qualification process for athletes. The IOC has stipulated that only boxers whose national federations are members of World Boxing by the start of the qualification events will be eligible to compete in Los Angeles.
The qualification dates are yet to be confirmed, but the anticipation is already building among athletes and fans alike. The U.S. boxing team, in particular, is eager to reclaim its status as a dominant force in the sport, especially after a disappointing performance at the recent Paris 2024 Olympics, where they secured only one medal.
Conclusion
The inclusion of boxing in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics is a significant milestone for the sport, promising a return to its Olympic roots. As preparations begin, the boxing community looks forward to a fair and competitive environment that honors the legacy of this historic sport. With the new governance structure in place, the future of boxing at the Olympics appears brighter than ever.