Greece, the birthplace of Olympic values, once again stands at the center of global sport, recording unprecedented participation in Muaythai.
The Panhellenic Muaythai Federation (PMF), the official member of the International Federation of Muaythai Associations and recognized by the Greek Ministry of Sport and National Olympic Committee, continues to lead as one of the strongest nations within the international Muaythai community.
The Panhellenic Muaythai Federation -PMF is set to host the National Muaythai Championship 2026 on 25–26 April at the Olympic Facilities in Paiania, Athens. Entrusted with hosting this year’s IFMA Youth World Championships, the entire country is mobilized. Over 5,000 athletes have qualified through a nationwide system.
This weekend, 800 Greek athletes from all parts of Greece will compete at final the National Championships across Combat, Wai Kru & Mae Muay, and Para and Special divisions, all striving for the honor of being selected for the national team.
Clubs from across Greece are preparing to take part in a dynamic weekend of competition, with athletes competing under IFMA rules, across all age categories.
The upcoming championship reflects the continued growth of Muaythai in Greece, bringing together the national Muaythai community and providing a platform for athletes to showcase their skills and development.
Through this event, PMF continues its efforts to promote Muaythai nationwide and strengthen its presence within the global IFMA family.
Only the best will earn the right to represent Greece at the IFMA Youth World Championships where over 100 nations will unite in Ancient Olympia and history will once again be written. These national champions will also qualify for the IFMA Senior World Championships in Malaysia and the All‑Inclusive Championships in Kosovo, continuing their journey along the Olympic‑aligned pathway toward excellence.
President Ioannis Papadopoulos emphasized the deeper meaning behind this moment:
“Greece is important to Olympic values because it is where they were born. At Olympia, the ancient Games introduced peace, excellence, respect, and unity values that still guide sport today. Revived in Athens in 1896, they became the foundation of the modern Olympic Movement. Greece did not just start the Olympics it gave sport its values.”
IFMA President Dr Sakchye Tapsuwan added:
“This is why we are proud to be IOC-recognised. Greece is a strong and important member of IFMA, where the ancient Olympic values and the traditions of Muaythai merge into one built on respect, culture, and excellence.”
Chair of the IFMA Athletes’ Commission Lennert Swart stated:
“For athletes, competing in Greece is a true honor. At Olympia, they stand where it all began. They are not just competing, they are part of a legacy, living the true spirit of the Olympics.”
Beyond the numbers, this moment carries a powerful message:
Youth are the future and the world needs cultural understanding and peace.
Through Muaythai and Olympic values, young athletes from all backgrounds come together, learning respect, building friendships, and breaking barriers.
This is more than a championship.
This is the future in action.
To all athletes: compete with pride, respect, and courage you are not only chasing victory, you are carrying the Olympic spirit forward.
