The International Federation of Muaythai Associations (IFMA) has cemented its position as the global leader in Muaythai, one of the world’s fastest-growing sports and cultural martial arts. For over 30 years, IFMA has propelled the sport’s evolution with a steadfast commitment to excellence, earning its place as the sole governing body entrusted with elevating Muaythai within the international sports movement and the Olympic family.

Founded in 1993, IFMA’s journey has been defined by strategic foresight and relentless dedication. With athletes at the heart of its mission, the federation has consistently prioritized the future of the sport and the well-being of its practitioners. Since its inaugural participation in the SportAccord Convention in 2003, IFMA has championed Muaythai’s values on the global stage, participating in every edition of the convention. Through meticulous planning and determination, Muaythai achieved recognition from SportAccord in 2006 and went on to receive IOC provisional recognition in 2016. The crowning achievement of full IOC recognition in 2021 reflects IFMA’s enduring vision and influence, embedding Muaythai firmly within the Olympic movement and showcasing the sport’s rich history and cultural significance.

Muaythai is more than a competitive sport; it is a cultural treasure and a tool for social transformation. IFMA’s innovative “Sport Is Your Gang” initiative, which won the 2014 Spirit of Sport Award from SportAccord, exemplifies the federation’s commitment to using Muaythai to address societal challenges. By harnessing the sport’s values, IFMA has empowered communities worldwide, demonstrating the unifying and transformative power of Muaythai.

IFMA AND THE GENDER EQUALITY

IFMA has been a trailblazer in promoting gender equality and inclusivity, setting benchmarks for other sports to follow. Female athletes now thrive in regions such as the Islamic Republic of Iran and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, where world champions have emerged, breaking barriers and redefining expectations. IFMA’s unity-first ethos ensures that men and women work together to create a brighter future for the next generation, embodying the Olympic ideals of respect and equality.

While Thailand, the birthplace of Muaythai, celebrates its inclusion in the Olympic movement, IFMA’s financial independence highlights its resilience. The federation’s robust organizational structure and global reach have allowed it to thrive without external reliance, showcasing its strength and self-sufficiency.

IFMA’s influence extends to the world of media, where its Emmy-nominated The Challenger Muaythai series, which also won the Asian TV Awards, has brought the sport’s values and heritage to millions of new fans globally.

IFMA CELEBRATES EXCELLENCE

Youth development is at the core of IFMA’s mission. The IFMA Youth World Championships, one of the largest events of any recognized sport, provide a platform for young athletes to embrace Olympism while participating in cultural, sporting, and educational exchanges. Beyond the competition, IFMA celebrates excellence through cultural medals, para divisions, and its iconic World Youth Gala, setting a gold standard for inclusivity and innovation.

IFMA has positioned Muaythai as a unifying force on the global stage, bringing together participants from over 100 nations in events hosted in venues like the United Nations headquarters. These gatherings embody the Olympic spirit of collaboration and mutual respect, reinforcing Muaythai’s role as a tool for diplomacy and cultural exchange.

OLYMPIC FAMILY

Under IFMA’s leadership, Muaythai has earned its place in prestigious multi-sport games, securing its status as a respected member of the Olympic family. IFMA’s partnerships with the United Nations and other global institutions exemplify its commitment to governance excellence and innovation, setting a gold standard for the future of sport.

IFMA’s journey reflects the belief that success lies not only in reaching the destination but in the values upheld along the way. Its results inspire a global community to dream bigger, achieve more, and embrace the unifying power of sport.

With a commitment to excellence, inclusivity, and innovation, IFMA leads the charge in showcasing Muaythai’s potential as a global force for unity, cultural pride, and positive change. As part of the Olympic family, Muaythai embodies the ideals of Faster, Higher, Stronger—Together, proving that the spirit of sport can transcend borders and transform lives.

Muaythai unites. Muaythai inspires.