The World Muaythai Demonstration Team to perform in Paris. IFMA

The Muaythai World Demonstration Team is back in full swing for the Olympic Games. International Federation of Muaythai Associations (IFMA) has promoted the Art of 8 Limbs at the Rio 2016 Olympics and continued this promotion at the 2018 Youth Olympics in Buenos Aires. Although the Tokyo 2020 Olympics saw a pause due to the pandemic, the Demonstration Team will be back in Paris.

In 2016 IFMA officially submitted updated rules and regulations including Wai Kru and Mai Muay to the International Olympic Committee, as a part of their request for recognition as an official Olympic recognised sport.

IFMA World Family performed Wai Kru in Greece in May 2024. IFMA
IFMA World Family performed Wai Kru in Greece in May 2024. IFMA

Wai Kru and Mai Muray are full medal events at every IFMA World Youth and Senior Championships. These divisions receive the same prestigious medal ceremonies and are included in the official medal tally.

IFMA organised its first grand Wai Kru and Mai Muray demonstrations in 2001. Over 1500 youth performed in the honour of Thai princess Sirivannavari Nariratana Rajakanya. Since then, Wai Kru and Mai Muay competitions have been integral to the IFMA Championships.

IFMA organised its first grand Wai Kru and Mai Muray demonstrations in 2001. IFMA
IFMA organised its first grand Wai Kru and Mai Muray demonstrations in 2001. IFMA

In May 2024, the IFMA World Family, representing all abilities, performed Wai Kru at the ancient birthplace of the Olympics in Greece, marking a historic moment for Muaythai.

The 2024 is a testament to the global spirit of Muaythai, featuring athletes from Thailand, the motherland, Greece, the birthplace of the Olympics, France, the host country, and multiple gold medal-winning teams from the Philippines and Malaysia. These athletes will perform at tvarious prestigious venues from the Olympic House to Club France, Baan Muay, UNESCO and more.