In a remarkable turnaround, boxing has been reinstated as an Olympic sport for the Los Angeles Games in 2028, thanks largely to the efforts of Boris van der Vorst. As the president and co-founder of World Boxing, Van der Vorst led the charge to establish a credible regulatory body after the International Boxing Association (IBA) lost its IOC recognition. His journey involved navigating complex political landscapes, addressing systemic corruption, and rallying global support to secure boxing's place within the Olympic movement.

A New Era for Boxing

In the wake of controversies surrounding amateur boxing, particularly those exposed by Prof Richard McLaren’s investigation in 2021, the sport faced potential exclusion from the Olympics. Amid this turmoil, Boris van der Vorst emerged as a pivotal figure. From his position as president of the Dutch Boxing Federation since 2013, he championed reform and fairness. In April 2023, amidst intense pressure and tight deadlines, Van der Vorst unveiled World Boxing, a newly formed organization designed to restore trust and transparency. By December 2023, it had grown to include 88 national federations, marking one of the most extraordinary comebacks in Olympic history.

Key moments in this saga include the scandalous decision during Michael Conlan's bout at the 2016 Rio Olympics, which galvanized Van der Vorst’s resolve to fight against corruption. When Russia invaded Ukraine in early 2022, further strain was placed on the IBA under Umar Kremlev, aligning with Russian interests rather than sporting integrity. Despite these challenges, Van der Vorst worked tirelessly alongside allies from countries like the US and Great Britain, ensuring that World Boxing met all IOC standards for governance, financial stability, and athlete welfare.

Van der Vorst’s dedication extended beyond administrative duties; he sacrificed personal business ventures to fully commit himself to this cause. With unwavering family support—including contributions from his wife and daughters—he built a robust framework for World Boxing, emphasizing fair play and inclusivity. Looking ahead, the organization plans to address pressing issues such as gender eligibility policies while maintaining its commitment to sporting integrity and safety.

The Road Ahead

This story serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of leadership and integrity in sports governance. Boris van der Vorst’s achievement demonstrates how visionaries can unite fragmented communities around shared values. For readers and journalists alike, it underscores the critical role of accountability in preserving the spirit of competition. As World Boxing embarks on its next chapter, the challenge remains clear: sustaining progress and proving worthy of the privilege to remain part of the Olympic family. The journey may have just begun, but the foundation laid by Van der Vorst offers hope for a brighter future for boxing enthusiasts worldwide.