Thomas Bach as been told to step down. GETTY IMAGES

In an open letter, IBA President Umar Kremlev demanded the immediate resignation of IOC President Thomas Bach and his team. Kremlev has accused Bach of transforming the IOC into a wealthy entity that neglects athletes and sports communities, failing to serve their needs.

"Dear IOC members, on behalf of the global boxing community, I demand Thomas Bach and his team to resign immediately. During Bach's administration tenure, the IOC has deteriorated considerably, ceasing to be an organization that unites athletes and serves our sports communities. Instead, it has become wealthy beyond imagination through artificial conflicts, which in turn is an insult to athletes," Kremlev writes.

Kremlev highlights the disparity between the lavish lifestyle of IOC leadership and the "sub-standard conditions" faced by Olympic athletes. He points out that athletes, who generate substantial income for the IOC through TV rights, sponsorships, and ticket sales, do not receive prize money and must often fund their own travel and accommodations. Kremlev insists this situation must change, arguing that athletes and their coaches deserve financial rewards and recognition.

Medallists should receive prizes made from corresponding metals, Kremlev argues, criticising the current medals as disrespectful to athletes' hard work and sacrifices. He also accuses Bach of double standards towards Russia and Israel and of using political decisions for personal gain. Kremlev urges IOC members to vote no confidence in Bach based on his management policies and perceived abuse of power.

Thomas Bach has been told to step down. GETTY IMAGES
Thomas Bach has been told to step down. GETTY IMAGES




Kremlev promotes the Friendship Games, a new event by the International Friendship Association, as a viable alternative to the Olympic Games. With a $100 million (€92m) prize fund and covered travel and accommodation expenses, the Friendship Games aim to prioritise athletes' interests over political and commercial motives.

The letter calls for governance reforms within the IOC, advocating for fair election processes driven by National Olympic Committees and International Federations. Kremlev criticises the recent presidential elections at the Olympic Council of Asia, alleging undue pressure from IOC leadership and manipulated outcomes.

He also condemns former AIBA President CK Wu for corruption and mismanagement, which led to the organisation's near-collapse. Kremlev emphasizes the IBA's recovery efforts and commitment to supporting athletes with prize money and medals made of pure gold. He urges IOC members to adopt similar measures and provide athletes with the opportunity to earn a living through their performance.

Reaffirming the IBA’s commitment to awarding prize money for athletes at Paris 2024, Kremlev concludes by calling for immediate action to address governance issues within the IOC. "It’s time for change! We need to act!" he urges.

The full statement can be viewed here.