Kosovo’s National Boxing Team was not allowed to participate in the International Boxing Championship being held in the Serbian capital, Belgrade.

This comes after they were not allowed to display their national symbols on the uniform, something that was rejected by the team, according to local media KosovaPress.

The International Boxing Association immediately reacted following the incident.

“AIBA aims to provide a welcoming home for every boxer, and the world of boxing has no borders. We believe that all athletes must receive a fair chance to compete and demonstrate their best abilities in the ring. Sport is intended to unite people and should be free of national politics”, a statement released from AIBA read.

The General Secretary of the Association called on Serbian authorities to allow Kosovar boxers to be allowed to compete in their uniform and display the national symbols.

“AIBA is in contact with the event host for the AIBA World Championships, the Serbian Boxing Federation, in an attempt to remedy the situation.”