India's Boxing Team Set for Grand Prix Usti nad Labem in Czechia

Overview of the Grand Prix Usti nad Labem

The Boxing Federation of India (BFI) has announced a 12-member team for the esteemed Grand Prix Usti nad Labem, taking place in Czechia from June 17 to June 21. This event features prominent athletes, including Olympic medallist Lovlina Borgohain and Asian Championships gold medallist Preeti Pawar, as India gears up for the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow 2026.

Significance of the Tournament

This tournament is crucial for Indian boxers, as it includes many of the nation's top-ranked competitors across various Commonwealth Games weight categories. With significant international competitions approaching, the Grand Prix serves as an essential platform for refining skills, evaluating team dynamics, and gaining exposure against formidable global opponents in a competitive European environment.

Historical Context

The Grand Prix Usti nad Labem is one of the longest-running boxing events in Europe, having been a staple on the international boxing calendar for over fifty years. It will be held as a European Boxing Gold Tournament, adhering to World Boxing regulations, and will feature contests in 10 men's and 10 women's weight classes. This event is a vital benchmark for Indian boxers as they prepare for a busy international schedule.

Statement from BFI President

Ajay Singh, President of BFI, remarked, "The Grand Prix Usti nad Labem is a highly esteemed international boxing event that provides our athletes with a valuable opportunity to face strong competitors from around the globe. The squad comprises many of our top boxers, and such experiences are crucial for their growth, confidence, and adaptability in various competitive settings. We are dedicated to ensuring our athletes receive quality international exposure, and I wish the entire team success in Czechia."

Composition of the Indian Squad

The women's team is led by Olympic medallist Lovlina Borgohain (75kg) and Asian Championships gold medallist Preeti Pawar (54kg), alongside Sakshi (51kg), Priya (60kg), and Parveen (65kg). Notably, World No. 1 Jaismine Lamboria and Arundhati Choudhary will not participate due to ongoing injury recoveries.

The men's squad includes Jadumani Singh (55kg), Sachin Siwach (60kg), Aditya Pratap (65kg), Sumit (70kg), Ankush (80kg), Kapil Pokhariya (90kg), and Narender (+90kg).

This tournament is part of BFI's ongoing initiative to provide Indian boxers with consistent international exposure and diverse competitive experiences as they prepare for significant upcoming events.

Complete Indian Squad

Women: Sakshi (51kg), Preeti Pawar (54kg), Priya (60kg), Parveen (65kg), Lovlina Borgohain (75kg).

Men: Jadumani Singh (55kg), Sachin Siwach (60kg), Aditya Pratap (65kg), Sumit (70kg), Ankush (80kg), Kapil Pokhariya (90kg), Narender (+90kg).