The International Federation of Muaythai Associations (IFMA) welcomes the outcomes of the 14th Olympic Summit, held at Olympic House in Lausanne and chaired by IOC President Kirsty Coventry. The Summit reaffirmed a core principle of the Olympic Movement: every athlete’s right to access sport free from political interference.

Discussions reviewed the IOC’s Fit for the Future consultation process and highlighted the important work of the IOC Working Group on the Protection of the Fundamental Principles of Olympism. It was noted that the Olympic Charter already provides strong mechanisms to safeguard political neutrality, integrity, and independence in sport.

Participants emphasised that political neutrality is essential to protecting athletes and ensuring fair, safe competition environments. At the same time, the need for clearer definitions and practical guidance was acknowledged, with further work to be advanced by the IOC Working Group.

IFMA strongly supports the reaffirmed position that athletes—particularly youth athletes—must never be held accountable for the actions of their governments. In this context, IFMA notes the IOC Executive Board’s recommendation to lift restrictions on youth athletes holding Russian or Belarusian passports for international youth competitions, subject to the regulations of each International Federation.

These principles will apply to the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games and are recommended for adoption across all International Federations and organisers of international youth sporting events. IFMA remains committed to embedding these principles within its youth pathways, safeguarding young athletes and upholding the values of Olympism.

At the same time, IFMA acknowledges that existing sanctions against the Russian and Belarusian governments remain in force, including restrictions on government officials and the continued application of IOC participation conditions for senior-level competitions.

The Olympic Summit reaffirmed that sport is a powerful force for hope, unity, and peace, and that all athletes and entourage members share a responsibility to respect and uphold Olympic values before, during, and after competition.

IFMA extends its sincere appreciation to IOC President Kirsty Coventry and thanks all Olympic Summit participants for their leadership, constructive dialogue, and unwavering commitment to protecting athletes’ rights and the fundamental principles of Olympism.