The IFMA Youth World Championships 2024 unfolded with a vibrant Opening Ceremony, embodying the Olympic spirit of unity, cultural celebration, and personal growth. This year’s edition, held in honor of His Majesty the King’s 72nd birthday, is the largest in IFMA’s history, gathering over 3,000 young athletes from 93 countries, all aligned with the Olympic ideals of peace, solidarity, and inclusion.
Since IFMA’s decision in 2012 to separate the Youth from the Senior World Championships, this event has become a pivotal platform for athletes aged 8-17 to not only demonstrate their competitive prowess but also to foster personal development and embrace Muaythai’s core values. These values—respect, honor, fair play, and excellence—resonate with the Olympic Movement, as IFMA continues to uphold its commitment to nurturing youth both as athletes and global citizens.
The 2024 championships are especially significant, with the King and Queen’s Cup presented by His Majesty the King and Her Majesty the Queen—a profound honor that links the event to Thailand’s royal heritage while reflecting the universal values championed by the Olympics.
Leading the parade of nations was the Youth Refugee Team, a poignant reminder of sport’s power to transcend borders and unite individuals from diverse backgrounds. Athletes from across the globe, including Neutral Athletes, entered the venue embodying the Olympic spirit of unity in diversity. They will not only compete for medals but serve as ambassadors for a better, more inclusive future.
In his opening address, IFMA President Dr. Sakchye Tapsuwan spoke emotionally to the young athletes, praising them as the true ambassadors of Muaythai and unity. His Serene Highness Prince Nawaphansa Yugala, Chair of the Opening Ceremony, lauded IFMA’s efforts in promoting equality, non-discrimination, and cultural exchange—principles that align closely with the Olympic Movement.
The ceremony also echoed the traditions of the Olympic Games, with the Athletes’ Oath delivered by Sphinx Prescod of Trinidad and Tobago, Andrew Nelson for the coaches, and Diong Ying Chea of Malaysia for the officials. This symbolic moment underscored the commitment to fair play, integrity, and respect, values shared by both IFMA and the Olympic Games.
The 2024 IFMA Youth World Championships reflect a blend of sport, education, and cultural exchange, with competitions across a diverse range of Muaythai disciplines. These young athletes, over the course of the nine-day event, will compete not just to win but to embody the Olympic values of excellence, friendship, and respect, forging bonds that will last a lifetime.
As the torch of competition passes to the next generation, it is clear that the legacy of the IFMA Youth World Championships will extend far beyond the medal podium, nurturing future leaders and global citizens through the unifying power of sport.
Let the games begin!
