The International Federation of Muaythai Associations has officially published the updated IFMA Rules & Regulations Version 3.0, representing one of the most significant technical and structural developments in recent years for the global Muaythai movement.

The updated framework reflects IFMA’s continued commitment to athlete development, safety, governance, innovation, and the preservation of Muaythai’s cultural heritage across all recognised disciplines.

A landmark addition within the new regulations is the official introduction of Muaythai Technical (Semi Contact), establishing a new technical competition pathway focused on precision, control, scoring accuracy, and structured athlete progression. The discipline joins IFMA’s recognised pathways alongside Muaythai Combat (Full Contact) and Muaythai Cultural disciplines including Wai Kru and Mai Muay.

Another major development is the implementation of a new calendar-year age classification system. Athlete eligibility will now be determined according to year of birth and competition year, creating greater consistency across international events and aligning long-term athlete development structures globally.

The updated regulations also introduce revised age divisions and weight classifications, expanded safeguarding and medical provisions, updated officiating structures, enhanced scoring systems, refined competition formats, and strengthened governance standards throughout all IFMA-sanctioned competitions.

Additional developments include:

  • New definitions and interpretation guidelines
  • Enhanced athlete pathway structures from youth to elite and masters
  • Expanded anti-doping education requirements
  • Clarified refugee athlete participation provisions
  • Updated technical official structures and responsibilities
  • New competition systems including round robin and repechage options
  • Enhanced media, scoring display, and field-of-play regulations
  • Strengthened safety and protective equipment requirements

The revised regulations were approved following extensive work by the IFMA Technical Review Committee and the IFMA Executive Committee as part of IFMA’s ongoing commitment to ensuring Muaythai continues to evolve as a world-leading combat sport under Olympic Movement values.

IFMA President Dr. Sakchye Tapsuwan stated that the updated rules demonstrate IFMA’s commitment to balancing innovation, athlete welfare, and technical excellence while protecting the traditions and identity of Muaythai for future generations.

The updated IFMA Rules & Regulations Version 3.0 can now be downloaded via the official IFMA website here: http://staging.mongkonacademy.com/about-muaythai/muaythai-rules/