Sri Lanka Boxing Association has demonstrated an excellent level of organisation by hosting the ASBC U22 and Youth Asian Boxing Championships in the capital city of Colombo this month. Led by President Dr. Anuruddha Shanaka Bandara, the National Federation showed its outstanding commitment in delivering the best experience for boxers, coaches, officials and spectators. 

IBA Secretary General and CEO Chris Roberts OBE attended the event in Colombo and spoke highly about the organisation of the Championships. Accompanied by Dr. Anuruddha Shanaka Bandara, IBA Board of Directors member Mr Dian Gomes and ASBC Interim President Mr Aziz Kozhambetov, he met with Minister of Sports and Youth Affairs of Sri Lanka Hon. Sunil Kumara Gamage to discuss future opportunities.

The country is aiming high and would like to host a World Championships in 2026 with a strong commitment to giving a boost to boxing development in the country. 

‘Sri Lanka would wish to be considered to host an IBA World Championships for the very first time in history’, Chris Roberts OBE said. ‘New bidding guidelines will be produced very shorlty to support this brilliant potential initiative and to give an opportunity to go through the bidding process. Seeing the enthusiasm and commitment of Sri Lanka Boxing Association and the local government, I believe that the country could be a strong candidate in the future.’ 

IBA Board of Directors member Dian Gomes, Sri Lanka citizen, emphasised the role of boxing for the younger generation of Sri Lanka. 

‘I can see how the boxing landscape has been changing in Sri Lanka over the years, and it’s great to see how the country hosted an excellent continental event here in Colombo. Our boxers and senior government officials have been inspired by this Championships here in the capital of Sri Lanka. We perfectly know that boxing is one of the largest growing sports in our country, we welcome all future opportunities,’ Gomes mentioned.

______________

Media contacts:

Elena Sobol, Head of Communications and PR, International Boxing Association: elena.sobol@iba.sport