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International Federation · Bodybuilding

IFBB — International Federation of Bodybuilding & Fitness

Bodybuilding's international federation since 1946 — the amateur world championships and the separate professional league behind Mr. Olympia.
✓ Last reviewed: August 2026
Founded1946 — by Joe and Ben Weider
Members190+ national federations
StructureAmateur IFBB (IOC-recognized) · separate IFBB Professional League in the U.S.
FlagshipsIFBB World Championships · Arnold Classic amateur events

What is the IFBB?

The International Federation of Bodybuilding & Fitness, founded in 1946 by Joe and Ben Weider, is the sport's international federation — IOC-recognized, with more than 190 national members running the amateur world championships and the pro-card pathway.[1] [2]

The amateur/professional split

Worth being precise about: the IFBB and the American IFBB Professional League are separate organizations sharing a name and history. The federation governs amateur international competition; the Pro League owns Mr. Olympia and the professional circuit. Competitors move between them by earning a pro card.[2] [3]

References

  1. Encyclopaedia Britannica — Bodybuilding (history). Accessed August 2026.
  2. IFBB — official site. Accessed August 2026.
  3. IFBB Professional League — official site. Accessed August 2026.