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International Federation · Sambo

FIAS — International Sambo Federation

Sambo's world governing body — granted full IOC recognition at the 2021 Session in Tokyo, the sport's long-sought milestone.
✓ Last reviewed: August 2026
Founded1984
MilestoneFull IOC recognition granted at the Session in Tokyo, July 2021
RunsWorld Sambo Championships · World Cup · World Games sambo
Members~120 national federations

What is FIAS?

The International Sambo Federation, founded in 1984, governs world sambo — roughly 120 national federations, the World Sambo Championships in sport and combat forms, and the sport's World Games participation. In July 2021 it achieved full IOC recognition.[1] [2]

Why does the recognition matter?

Because it is the gate: without IOC recognition a sport cannot be considered for the Olympic programme, access Olympic Solidarity funds, or appear in the multi-sport events the movement controls. FIAS's 2021 upgrade is the milestone its leadership had pursued for a decade.[3] [4]

References

  1. FIAS — about. Accessed August 2026.
  2. FIAS — official site. Accessed August 2026.
  3. FIAS — full IOC recognition obtained. Accessed August 2026.
  4. Inside the Games — IOC recognition a priority for sambo. Accessed August 2026.