The World Boxing Federation has announced that Belarusian athletes can now compete under their national flag in international boxing events. This decision follows a recommendation from the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and takes effect immediately.
According to the federation’s official statement, Belarusian boxers are now free to participate in all competitions organized by World Boxing and its European Continental Confederation, as well as events hosted by national federations that are members of World Boxing. The lifting of restrictions also applies to coaches, support staff, and officials accompanying the Belarusian teams.
In contrast, restrictions on Russian boxers remain in place. Earlier this year, in late April, World Boxing had permitted athletes from both Belarus and Russia to compete as neutral individuals in international competitions.
World Boxing was established in 2023 to oversee amateur boxing and ensure its inclusion in the Olympic program. The organization emerged as an alternative to the International Boxing Association (IBA) due to transparency issues within the latter, and it has received temporary recognition from the IOC. The federation is led by Kazakh boxer Gennady Golovkin.
On May 12, the International Union of Modern Pentathlon also lifted restrictions on Belarusian athletes following IOC recommendations.
The World Boxing Federation has lifted restrictions on Belarusian athletes, allowing them to compete under their national flag. This change aligns with IOC recommendations and contrasts with ongoing restrictions for Russian boxers.
Source: Radio Svoboda