Kickboxing made the shortlist of nine new sports being considered for the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles alongside flag football (non-contact American Football), karate, baseball-softball, lacrosse, breakdancing, squash, motorsport and cricket. Five sports would be selected from the shortlist, it was just reported that flag football, baseball-softball, lacrosse, squash and cricket have been selected. The IOC’s decision only guarantees inclusion at the 2028 Summer Games, it does not earn these sports a permanent place in the Olympic program. The fact that Kickboxing made the shortlist should be applauded and we congratulate WAKO on a valiant effort.

Squash a racket sport many would consider mainstream, a sport with a 150 history finally gets a place in the Summer Olympics after 40 years of trying. Kickboxing may have a long road ahead but if it ever gets selected it will raise the profile of the sport for all involved.