IBA Secretary General & CEO’s Message

By Chris Roberts OBE
International Boxing Association (IBA)

As Secretary General and CEO of the International Boxing Association, it is both a responsibility and a privilege to address our global boxing family at a time of continued evolution across the international sporting landscape. The period ahead presents significant opportunity for growth, unity, and renewed purpose. It also demands professionalism, diligence, and the collective commitment of every individual who contributes to the delivery and development of our sport.

The IBA remains steadfast in its mission to provide an athlete‑centred platform for the boxing community worldwide. Our work is driven by the belief that the values of discipline, resilience, and fairness, values inherent in boxing, must also guide the governance and operations of our organisation.

Recent changes to the IBA Constitution are set to underpin more robust and streamlined operational effectiveness, ensuring both delivery and fiscal management are optimised. We continue to remain acutely aware of the requirements necessary for success, always linking our efforts to the needs and expectations of our audience. This commitment guides our ongoing progress and shapes our priorities for the future.

Strengthening our path through professionalism and expertise

The strength of the IBA lies not only in its competitions but in the diverse team of professionals who support its daily operations. From logistics and event delivery to legal, governance, administration and international relations functions, our workforce reflects a breadth of expertise essential for navigating the complexities of this modern sport.

We continue to rely on:

Strengthening our path through professionalism and expertise

At the core of our progress are individuals whose dedication often goes unnoticed. They remain humble, the unsung heroes behind every achievement, quietly ensuring the success and integrity of the organisation.

• Administrative expertise at the heart of the IBA’s ongoing mission lies a dedicated administrative team, whose organisational skills and attention to detail underpin every successful initiative.
• Diplomatic specialists who bring the cultural awareness and international engagement skills needed in today’s connected environment, and who understand the geopolitical dynamics that influence sport globally.
• Graduates and professionals whose perspectives strengthen our long-term capacity.
• Specialists in sports management and development who deliver top quality, impactful programmes and events while maintaining the highest standards of efficiency and innovation.
• World-leading sports lawyers who anchor our governance, compliance, and integrity frameworks in international best practice.
• Communication experts who ensure that our vision, achievements, and values are clearly articulated. Their ability to foster meaningful dialogue and build relationships both within and beyond the boxing community is essential to driving engagement and trust.

This combination of experience and emerging talent allows the IBA to operate with confidence and credibility.

Recognising leadership and dedication
It is important to acknowledge the proud and tireless efforts of our President, Mr Umar Kremlev, whose passion for the development of global boxing continues to influence the organisation’s direction. His energy, outreach, and commitment to providing pathways for athletes and national federations remain essential pillars of our shared work.

Under his leadership, the IBA has expanded opportunities for participation, strengthened its presence in new regions, and upheld the principle that boxing must remain accessible to all.

A year of important events and meaningful milestones
As we look ahead, the IBA is preparing to deliver a dynamic and ambitious competition calendar across all levels of the sport.

Continental Championships
Our upcoming continental events will continue to serve as foundational competitions for elite and developing athletes alike. These championships foster regional pride, enhance technical standards, and ensure wide representation across the global boxing pathway.

Junior & School‑Age World gatherings
Later in the year, we will host a major championships for Junior and School‑Age categories, reinforcing our emphasis on youth development. Supporting young athletes at the earliest stages of their careers is essential to sustaining the long-term health of our sport.

Launch of the IBA Team World Cup
A new addition to the IBA calendar, the Team World Cup, will be introduced mid-year. This exciting project is designed to promote team identity, national spirit, and innovative presentation formats that resonate with our modern audiences.

A celebration aligned with the IBA Congress 2026
Looking further ahead, we anticipate a significant celebration of boxing to coincide with the IBA Congress 2026, bringing together leaders, athletes, officials, and partners in a unified demonstration of the sport’s global strength.

These events reflect the IBA’s commitment to excellence, access, and the continuous enhancement of competition structures.

Our commitment moving forward
As an organisation, we are fully aware of the challenges that accompany change within the international sporting environment. Yet we remain confident in our direction and resolute in our obligations.

The IBA will continue to prioritise:

• Good governance and operational transparency
• Athlete welfare, development, and opportunity
• The professionalisation of our administrative and technical structures
• Effective global engagement and partnership building
• The delivery of world-class competitions at every level

Our focus remains on building trust, reinforcing stability, and ensuring that boxing is represented with integrity on every stage.

Conclusion
The future of the IBA will be defined by the quality of our work, the strength of our relationships, and the professionalism of our people. I am proud of the team that serves this organisation daily, and grateful for the continued dedication of our President, national federations, athletes, coaches, officials, and staff.
In addition to our core initiatives, we recognise that our work within the sports ecosystem encompasses far more than what happens inside the ring. We continually evaluate all aspects of our operations, ensuring that we cater to the interests and passions of our global audiences both on and off the field of play. This holistic approach allows us to foster deeper engagement and broaden the appeal of the sport worldwide.

Together, we will continue building a stronger, more unified, and more resilient International Boxing Association; one that honours the sport’s heritage while embracing its future with confidence.