This decision follows Muaythai’s successful debut at the European Games Kraków–Małopolska 2023, where the sport demonstrated strong technical standards, organisational excellence, and its distinct cultural dimension within a major multi-sport environment.

At Istanbul 2027, Muaythai will once again present both its competitive and cultural elements. Alongside elite-level competition, the programme will include traditional disciplines such as Wai Kru and Mai Muay, reflecting the heritage and identity of the sport. This combination remains a defining characteristic of Muaythai within the European Games.

The European Games are among Europe’s leading multi-sport events, bringing together top athletes from across the continent and serving as an important platform within the Olympic Movement. Muaythai’s continued inclusion reflects strong governance and organisational capacity, ongoing development across European member federations, and alignment with Olympic values and standards.

The 2027 edition will be hosted in Istanbul, Türkiye, where Muaythai has seen consistent growth in recent years. Under the leadership of European Muaythai Federation President Hasan Yıldız, the Turkish federation has played an active role in both sport development and event organisation. Preparations for Istanbul 2027 will be carried out in close coordination with the EOC, the National Olympic Committee of Türkiye, and the local organising committee.

President Capralos, Acting Mayor of Istanbul Nuri Aslan, Istanbul 2027 CEO Prof. Dr. Çakir, and Turkish Olympic Committee Secretary General Neşe Gündoğan signed an amendment to add the Istanbul 2027 Organising Committee to the Host City Contract. Ms Zeynep Akçabay represented the İstanbul Metropolitan Municipality on the podium during the ceremony.

Commenting on the announcement, Hasan Yıldız stated:

“We thank the European Olympic Committees, the Turkish Ministry of Youth and Sports, the National Olympic Committee of Türkiye, and IFMA for their continued trust and support. We look forward to welcoming Europe’s athletes to Istanbul and delivering a competition that reflects both the sporting and cultural values of Muaythai.”

Preparations are now underway, with IFMA and the EMF working closely with all stakeholders to ensure a high standard of delivery. Building on its debut in 2023, Muaythai’s inclusion in the 2027 European Games marks a further step in its continued development within the Olympic Movement.