The Rio Olympic Velodrome located in the Barra Olympic Park Sports Complex was the venue for a spectacular opening for the 31st South American Muaythai Championships.
The opening ceremony included cultural performances from all over South America showcasing unity and diversity, incorporating the Olympic values of excellence, respect, and friendship.
The President of the National Olympic Committee of Brazil Mr. Paulo Wanderley Teixeira was of the many VIPs besides the Minister of Citizenship at the mayor’s office of Rio de Janeiro. The distinguished President of the NOC of Brazil Mr. Paulo Wanderley Teixeira showed his pride that Rio was given the right and responsibility of hosting this important event. And he congratulated all Muaythai national federations on the full recognition of Muaythai via the IOC. He further stated that Muaythai in Brazil is very popular and incorporates ancient values and traditions.
Mr Carlos Camacho, President of the Brazilian Muaythai Federation, welcomed all nations on behalf of the National Federation, thanked them for their trust, and wished all the athletes unforgettable memories from the Olympic city.
The event will take place in six rings simultaneously, and the opening day saw 8 hours of non-stop competition.
The event will be the first point qualifier for the World Games 2022 in Birmingham, USA and the final test before the upcoming IFMA Muaythai World Championships in Thailand.
The IFMA Executive Board has sent congratulations messages to the Brazilian Muaythai federation, the NOC, and the city of Rio de Janeiro, congratulating everyone for this event.