ISF and IFMA Join Forces to Promote Muaythai in School Sport Worldwide

ISF and the International Federation of Muaythai Associations (IFMA) have formalised a strategic partnership with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), establishing a shared commitment to develop muaythai as a global school sport and to create new competitive pathways for young athletes.

The signing took place in Lausanne, with IFMA President Dr Sakchye Tapsuwan and IFMA Director General Charissa Tynan representing IFMA, and ISF President Željko Tanasković, Vice President Antônio Hora, and Executive Director Hasnae El Ayoubi representing ISF.

Under the terms of the MoU, IFMA and ISF will collaborate to promote muaythai participation within school sport systems worldwide, help the sport reach young athletes in an educational, safe, and values-based environment, foster educational initiatives that integrate the sport into school programmes, and promote international school Muaythai competitions of high technical and cultural standard, ISF and IFMA are working closely to launch the ISF World School Muaythai Championship in 2027.

“This MoU represents a milestone in developing muaythai for young people everywhere and aligns with both IFMA’s and ISF’s shared vision of sport as a vehicle for education, inclusion, and personal growth,” said Dr. Sakchye Tapsuwan. “We are proud to join with ISF in creating meaningful competitive and learning opportunities that broaden access to muaythai and inspire the next generation of athletes. ”

“We are delighted to welcome IFMA as a strategic partner committed to expanding opportunities for school sport participants,” said Mr. Željko Tanasković. “This partnership enhances our global school sport offer and ensures muaythai can flourish in school communities worldwide.”

This cooperation fits within ISF’s broader strategy of working closely with International Federations to expand school sport opportunities, develop young athletes, and strengthen the educational dimension of sport worldwide.

About International Federation of Muaythai Associations (IFMA)

The International Federation of Muaythai Associations (IFMA) is the world governing body for muaythai, responsible for the global development, regulation, and promotion of the sport at all levels. Founded in 1993, IFMA governs and supports a worldwide network of national federations across all continents.

IFMA is fully recognised by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and is a member of the Association of IOC Recognised International Sports Federations (ARISF). The Federation works closely with international multi-sport organisations, continental bodies, and national authorities to ensure muaythai is practised within a safe, ethical, and well-governed framework aligned with Olympic values.

Committed to youth development, education, and cultural heritage, IFMA promotes structured pathways from grassroots and school sport through to elite international competition, while placing strong emphasis on safeguarding, clean sport, education, and lifelong participation.