This summer will be a huge one in terms of sporting action, with the European Championship being staged on the soccer schedule in June and July before the Olympic Games get underway in Paris.
Few sporting events match the Olympics in terms of worldwide viewing numbers, and the growth of MMA could reach new heights during the summer in Europe. Fresh eyes will be on Muay Thai in Paris, as the sport will be showcased in the French capital during the Games.
In recent decades, the Olympic program has expanded to include several lesser-known sports. Now, it is Muay Thai’s turn to seek recognition as an official Olympic sport. But what could be the significance of the showcase in Paris this summer?
What To Expect
It will be an exciting summer for the sport of Muay Thai in Paris this summer, as the landmark showcase event in Europe will be staged throughout the Olympics between July 26 and August 11. Despite being labeled as a showcase event, there will also be a thrilling competition, with 24 countries from five different continents set to take part. Sports fans will also be able to bet on this event on Thaicasinocenter, where there are many betting suggestions and online casino games.
According to comments made by Sakchye Tapsuwan, President of the International Federation of Muay Thai Associations, over 1,000 boxers will be involved in the event. Fans of the sport in Paris will be delighted that MMA action will be available during the summer, with the five-day spectacle set to take place in the Olympic Park.
In addition to active competition, the showcase will also be aimed at educating fans who are in attendance about the history of the discipline, and there will also be workshops targeted toward showing the ancient form of martial art. After learning about the sport, fans will then be able to see some of the biggest and most exciting stars from around the world compete in a one-off event in Paris.
Passionate followers of the sport will also be able to get excited as Buakaw Banchamek will perform the traditional wai kru ritual. This ceremonial dance pays homage to teachers and athletes who have paved the way in the sport.
Step Closer To Olympic Inclusion
Tapsuwan is delighted that his sport will be recognized at the upcoming Olympics, and it seems that including the sport in the IOC program is a step in the right direction.
Speaking of the growth of the sport, Tapsuwan revealed that the martial art now boasts over 152 different associations from around the world, with the art practiced on five different continents. The Olympic program isn’t the only exciting European event on the agenda for the sport, as it was also revealed that Thailand would be sending athletes in 13 different weight classifications to compete in the upcoming IFMA Senior World Championships in Greece.
The sport is growing at a fast rate at this stage, and the news that some of the biggest Muay Thai events on the calendar will be staged in Europe this summer only heightens the belief that it is only a matter of time before the sport is contested at the Olympics.
Growing the sport worldwide will make Muay Thai widely accepted across all nations, with new fans drawn in by its rich history.
Muay Thai Olympic History
Muay Thai, often called the “Art of Eight Limbs,” is a traditional martial art from Thailand with a rich history spanning centuries. Originating as a form of close combat that utilized the entire body as a weapon, it evolved into a popular sport and a crucial part of Thai culture and identity.
Despite being practiced for generations, the sport wasn’t initially recognized by the IOC. The National Federation of Muay Thai Associations was founded in 1992, and the International Amateur Muay Thai Federation was established three years later.
After achieving success in Asia, the sport sought Olympic recognition in 2012, but it wasn’t until 2016 that Muay Thai received its first endorsement. The sport gained popularity and was even included in the World Games schedule in 2017.
Full endorsement of the sport was granted after a meeting of the IOC Board of Directors in 2019, and the IFMA also received full recognition shortly after.
The history of Muay Thai, like the rise of Thai online casinos, blends tradition with modernity. Both have deep roots in Thai culture and have adapted to meet today’s demands. Muay Thai has gained international fame with events like the Paris 2024 Olympics, while Thai online casinos, which you can explore here, have grown globally, using technology to reach a wider audience.
Conclusion
Muay Thai is currently enjoying its golden period of popularity, with a growing number of fans being introduced to the sport. Inclusion in the Olympic program would only continue that trajectory, meaning it will be a vital summer in Paris for organizers. And maybe the next Olympics in 2028 will be the first with Muay Thai as the official Olympic sport.
