This landmark inclusion reinforces Muaythai's commitment to the core Olympic values of sport for all, inclusion and lifelong participation. The International Masters Games Association (IMGA), the globally recognised governing body for masters sport and a long-standing partner of the Olympic Movement, promotes the powerful philosophy that sport belongs to everyone at every age.
Recognised by the International Olympic Committee (IOC), the IMGA continues to unite the world through mass-participation sport. The Open Masters Games Abu Dhabi 2026 is set to be the largest multi-sport masters event ever held in the region, welcoming more than 25,000 participants from across the globe, competing in 37 dynamic sports over ten days of competition.
Athletes aged 30 years and above, from all backgrounds and abilities, will gather in the UAE's vibrant capital to celebrate lifelong sport, health, cultural exchange and international friendship. With world-class venues, a diverse sporting programme, and a strong spirit of inclusion and unity, Abu Dhabi 2026 promises to be a milestone edition of the global masters movement and a spectacular stage for Muaythai.
Commenting on the inclusion, IFMA President Dr Sakchye Tapsuwan stated:
"The inclusion of Muaythai in the Open Masters Games Abu Dhabi 2026 represents another important milestone in our journey within the Olympic family and the global sport-for-all movement. It reflects the universal appeal of Muaythai and its capacity to inspire athletes at every stage of life."
H.E. Abdullah Al Neyadi, IFMA Vice President and President of the UAE Muaythai & Kickboxing Federation, added:
"The UAE is honoured to host the Open Masters Games Abu Dhabi 2026, a landmark event that reflects our nation's commitment to inclusion, excellence and the promotion of sport for all. Muaythai is a perfect fit within the Games programme, through its active combat sport, rich cultural disciplines and strong ethos of inclusiveness. Muaythai is living proof that age and ability are no barrier to passion, purpose and achievement."
As the countdown begins, we look ahead to a celebration of resilience, commitment and lifelong sport:
Let us get ready for Abu Dhabi 2026 — age is but a number, passion is timeless. A masters athlete does not chase time. They define it.
IFMA extends its sincere thanks to the Abu Dhabi Sports Council and its valued partner, the UAE Muaythai & Kickboxing Federation, for their leadership, collaboration and continued support in making this historic inclusion possible.