Irish Boxing's Strategic Move Towards LA 2028

In a landmark decision, the Irish Athletic Boxing Association (IABA) has overwhelmingly voted to pursue membership with World Boxing, setting the stage for Irish boxers to compete in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. This pivotal move came during an extraordinary general meeting where 116 out of 117 represented clubs voted in favor of constitutional reforms, enabling dual membership with both the International Boxing Association (IBA) and World Boxing.

The Road to Recognition

The decision follows the International Olympic Committee's (IOC) recommendation to include boxing in the LA 2028 summer Olympics. The IOC had previously provisionally recognized World Boxing after withdrawing recognition from the IBA in 2023 due to governance and financial issues. This shift has prompted national federations worldwide to align with World Boxing to ensure their athletes' eligibility for Olympic qualification.

A New Chapter for Irish Boxing

Niall O'Carroll, IABA Chairperson, emphasized the significance of this decision, stating, "Irish Boxing has spoken today, and has chosen to be able to plot its own course." He highlighted the removal of IBA references from the IABA constitution as a strategic move to provide clubs with the autonomy to choose their international affiliations, thereby enhancing opportunities for young boxers to compete on the global stage.

Impact on Olympic Aspirations

Boxing has historically been Ireland's most successful Olympic sport, contributing 19 out of Team Ireland's 42 medals. The recent victory of Kellie Harrington, who defended her Tokyo 2020 gold medal at Paris 2024, underscores the nation's prowess in the sport. With the new affiliations, Irish clubs and national teams now have the freedom to train and compete internationally, paving the way for future Olympic successes.

Future Prospects

The inclusion of boxing in the LA 2028 Olympics marks a new era for the sport in Ireland. As World Boxing continues to grow, with over 80 national federations already members, the path is clear for Irish boxers to shine on the world's biggest sporting stage. This development not only secures Ireland's participation in the upcoming Olympics but also strengthens the global boxing community.