International Boxing Association (IBA) welcomes newly elected IOC President Kirsty Coventry, who became the first-ever woman in this position, and hopes to establish a dialogue with the new leadership for the sake of a long-term boxing future.

IBA President Umar Kremlev expressed his hope that Coventry will take control of the IOC and cut ties with the old leadership as soon as possible to implement necessary reforms.

‘It is a celebration for Kirsty Coventry, and we hope the sports community will also mark this occasion with joy. However, this will only be possible if Coventry takes control of the IOC and cuts ties with Bach and his team. The reputation and integrity of the Olympic Games are in urgent need of restoration. The Olympics must return to its core values – honesty, fairness, and integrity – free from corruption and manipulation involving gender identity. Achieving this requires bold reforms, strong determination, and decisive action. Only then can trust in the Olympic Games and the IOC be restored. More importantly, Coventry must always remember that sports transcend politics,’ President Kremlev claimed.

IBA Secretary General and CEO Chris Roberts OBE, in turn, claimed that communication will be key to re-establish good cooperation and dialogue between the IBA and the IOC.

‘Open and transparent communication will serve as the foundation for rebuilding trust and re-establishing constructive dialogue between IBA and the IOC, which is crucial for the sake of our sport. Our goal is clear – collaboration driven by mutual respect and shared commitment to the integrity of sport. We firmly believe that through dialogue and genuine partnership, we can overcome past challenges and work together toward a future where athletes’ interests and fair competition remain paramount,’ Chris Roberts OBE added.

IBA welcomes the final confirmation on inclusion of boxing in the LA 2028 programme, whilst we remind ourselves that there were zero doubts regarding the rightful place of the sport.

IBA proudly reminds that we have the majority of countries with 191 National Federations from all continents onboard. IBA has conducted 22 men’s and 14 women’s World Championships and continues to be a driving force in boxing worldwide, with top-notch development programs, financial support, and prize money.

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Media contacts:

Elena Sobol, Head of Communications and PR, International Boxing Association: elena.sobol@iba.sport