The International Muay Thai Federation has lifted all sanctions against russia and Belarus

The ban on national symbols for russians had been in place since March 2022, although athletes were permitted to compete under ‘neutral’ status. Now, however, representatives from russia and Belarus in all age categories have been granted the right to compete in international Muay Thai competitions under their national flags.

"In accordance with the updated rules of participation, athletes from both countries will compete under their national flags at all IFMA-sanctioned events, including junior, youth, under-23 and senior championships. National teams will once again be permitted to display their countries’ official abbreviations and national insignia on their kits in accordance with competition rules,” the organisation’s statement reads.

The IFMA noted that the return of russian athletes “will intensify competition at future events and reinforce the ambition to transform Muay Thai into a platform for friendship, excellence, inclusion, cultural exchange and peace through sport”.

“Muay Thai is built on the values of respect, honour, tradition and unity. Since 2022, athletes from russia and Belarus have continued to participate in IFMA events at all levels as ‘neutral’ competitors, often with very strong delegations and a significant number of participants,” said Muay Thai President Sakchai Tapsuwan.

Source: Suspilne Sport