The International Federation of Muaythai Associations –IFMA– has announced an urgent policy change regarding Israeli representation at its events, following the death of Ammar Hamayel, a young Palestinian athlete and peace ambassador. The boy, who was part of the federation’s youth programs, died in a recent violent incident that has shaken the global muaythai community.
“When a child, a youth peace ambassador, is killed, silence is no longer an option,” said IFMA President Dr. Sakchye Tapsuwan. “This is not just a tragedy—it is a call to action. We cannot stand by when the innocent pay the price of conflict.”
Immediate restrictions at IFMA events
From now on, and with immediate effect, no Israeli national symbols will be allowed at any event organized or sanctioned by IFMA. This includes the flag, anthem and other official emblems.
Israeli athletes will still be allowed to compete, but only under the designation of Neutral Individual Athletes (AIN), the same status currently applied to participants from Russia and Belarus. In addition, no official IFMA competitions will be hosted or supported in Israel until further notice.
A symbolic protest, not against athletes
The federation stressed that these measures are not directed at Israeli athletes, who “remain valued members of the IFMA family”. According to the statement, the decision represents a peaceful yet firm protest against actions that “endanger children and violate the core values of global sport”.
“Sport is meant to protect, empower, and unite—especially for the young. Ammar believed in that,” said Dr. Tapsuwan. “We honour his memory not with silence, but with a stand for justice.”
Measures subject to future review
IFMA has confirmed that these decisions will remain in place until further notice and that the Executive Board will evaluate their continuation based on the evolving humanitarian situation and their alignment with the principles of peace, dignity and inclusion.
The federation concluded its statement by reaffirming its commitment to human dignity and its willingness to continuously review its policies to contribute to a fairer world through sport.
