A momentous occasion unfolded at the Islamic Solidarity Sports Association (ISSA) World Conference, held in Tirana, Albania, from 16–18 December. Representatives from 57 member state National Olympic Committees (NOCs) and sport federations convened, marking a historic milestone: the official inclusion of muaythai in the 2025 edition of the Islamic Solidarity Games (ISG). This achievement follows the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between ISSA and the International Federation of Muaythai Associations (IFMA) during the Paris Olympic Games.
IFMA was also invited to attend the 13th ISSA General Assembly in Tirana, where significant presentations regarding the Games were made. During the assembly, the Coordination Commission (CoComm) report was delivered by Mrs. Kunol, Chair of CoComm for ISG 2025. She emphasised that “success is a shared responsibility between the LOC, host, the ISSA member states NOCs and the International sport federations. Collective efforts will pave the way to a Games that will achieve collaboration, celebration, and solidarity.”
Additionally, Ian Reid, CEO of the LOC for ISG 2025, delivered a detailed presentation outlining their comprehensive plans for the event. His presentation highlighted key operational strategies, infrastructure developments, and the vision to ensure a memorable and successful Games, reinforcing the commitment to excellence and unity among all stakeholders.
Dr. Sakchye Tapsuwan, President of IFMA, expressed his immense pride, highlighting this as one of many milestones for the organisation. He noted that while muaythai’s recognition by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) is a landmark achievement, its adoption across all Islamic countries underscores the sport’s universality and unity. “This is something Thailand can be truly proud of,” he stated.
IFMA Director General Charissa Tynan reflected on the years of dedication that led to this moment, emphasising the organisation’s long-standing commitment to developing muaythai globally. “This is the result of over a decade of hard work,” she said, acknowledging the collaboration with National Federations in countries such as Morocco, Egypt, Tunisia, Algeria, the UAE, Malaysia, Saudi Arabia, Iran, and Iraq. Tynan highlighted that IFMA’s development efforts, spanning more than 30 years, have promoted and enhanced every facet of muaythai.
The 2025 Islamic Solidarity Games, set to take place in Riyadh, will showcase not only competitive bouts but also cultural disciplines like wai kru and mai muay, underscoring the rich traditions of the sport. The inclusion of these disciplines celebrates the cultural essence of muaythai and further integrates it into the global sporting landscape.
This achievement also exemplifies the true essence of soft power through sport. Over the past decade, IFMA has forged a strong partnership with the National Olympic Committee of Saudi Arabia. This collaboration predates the full restoration of diplomatic relations between the Kingdoms of Thailand and Saudi Arabia. Today, HRH Prince Fahad bin Mansour bin Saad bin Saud Al Saud, a testament to this enduring relationship, serves as an IFMA Vice President. “That is soft power in its truest essence,” Tynan remarked.
IFMA extended its gratitude to HRH Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki Al Faisal, President of ISSA and the NOC of Saudi Arabia, for his steadfast trust and support. The organisation affirmed its readiness to deliver an exceptional muaythai programme at the Islamic Solidarity Games, celebrating unity and excellence through sport.
