Teams are proudly taking their team pictures upon arrival in Bangkok for the 2024 IFMA Youth World Championships. Ninety-six teams are expected to participate in the largest IFMA World Championships to date. The teams are already preparing in various gyms around Thailand, acclimatizing and getting ready to perform at their best.
The President of IFMA, Dr. Sakchye Tapsuwan, stated, “Thailand rightfully can be proud of this event. Youth from over 90 countries are coming together in all their unity in diversity, united through muaythai.”
IFMA Sport Director, Janice Lyn, added, “Youth development is key, and the strict safety regulations as an IOC-recognized organization are vital. Nutrition and athlete health are especially important for youth, as they are not only expending a lot of energy in preparation and training but are also still growing. Some teams are travelling over 30 hours, so our job is to ensure quick and smooth handling from the airport to their well-deserved rest.”
Khun Kajorn Prowsi stated, “AMTAT, the recognized national federation of Thailand under Royal Patronage, has worked closely with IFMA to ensure that every one of the strict requirements is met.”
Dato Shanaz Azmi, the Chair of the IFMA Education Commission, further added, “This is not just a sporting event. The cultural and educational elements also play a pivotal part in the athletes’ experience, and this is one of the fundamental elements of IFMA, to guarantee proper youth development.”
IFMA Vice President, Sue Glassey, stated, “IFMA has been giving special effort to youth coming from countries like Libya, Palestine, Syria, Ukraine, Yemen, and Afghanistan, understanding the difficult circumstances these countries are in, not only within their countries but also travelling to this event. This is another example of IFMA’s vision and contribution towards a more peaceful and inclusive society.”
