The Kingdom of Bhutan has officially announced the formation of its first National Muaythai Federation. The announcement coincided with the state visit of Their Majesties King Maha Vajiralongkorn and Queen Suthida Bajrasudhabimalalakshana of Thailand to Bhutan. During the visit, Muaythai demonstrations were held along with traditional Bhutanese and Thai cultural performances, highlighting the shared heritage of this martial art as a modern and Olympic discipline.

A collaboration between Bhutan and IFMA

The Bhutan Muaythai Federation has been created under the auspices of the Bhutan Olympic Committee, led by His Royal Highness Prince Jigyel Ugyen Wangchuck, in close collaboration with the International Federation of Muaythai Associations (IFMA), the global governing body recognized by the IOC and the Olympic Council of Asia.

For the past two years, His Royal Highness has worked closely with IFMA, participating in Muaythai workshops in Thailand organized by AMTAT and PAT. Among the prominent participants was His Serene Highness Prince Nawaphansa Yugala, a key advocate for the international development of Muaythai.

Global Recognition for Muaythai in Bhutan

IFMA President Dr. Sakchye Tapsuwan welcomed Bhutan’s induction as the 157th member of the IFMA family. “Bhutan’s membership marks a proud moment for the global Muaythai family,” he said. He further expressed his support for the launch of the Bhutan Muaythai Federation and highlighted the anticipation of seeing young Bhutanese athletes participating in the upcoming International Games.

During an audience with IFMA Secretary General Stephan Fox, His Royal Highness shared Bhutan’s strategic vision for the development of Muaythai, highlighting its full recognition by the IOC and inclusion in events such as the Asian Youth Games (Bahrain 2025) and the Islamic Solidarity Games (Riyadh 2025).

A new chapter of cultural and sporting exchange

The creation of the Bhutan Muaythai Federation symbolizes a new era of cultural exchange and unity between Bhutan and Thailand. This milestone reaffirms Muaythai’s global mission to promote discipline, respect and tradition, values that resonate deeply in both nations.

With this announcement, Bhutan positions itself as a new player on the international Muaythai scene, strengthening ties between the two kingdoms and opening up opportunities for young Bhutanese athletes to participate in high-level international competitions.