Malagasy kickboxing is entering a new chapter. On Friday afternoon, at the Mahamasina Sports Palace, José Rafidison was officially elected president of the Malagasy Kickboxing and Associated Disciplines Federation (FMKB/DA). He succeeds Lylison René de Rolland Urbain, the current Minister of Territorial Development.

An election full of twists and turns

The election was marked by intense suspense, requiring several stages to decide between the three candidates in the running:

1. First round: Boto Gilbert came in first with 6 votes, followed by Serge Vital and José Rafidison, tied with 4 votes each. Lacking an absolute majority, a tie-breaking vote was held.
2. The repechage duel: José Rafidison wins by a wide margin against Serge Vital (9 votes against 5), thus securing his ticket to the final.
3. The outcome: In the final showdown, the outgoing vice-president, José Rafidison, caused a surprise by defeating Boto Gilbert by 8 votes to 6 .

Priorities for the 2026-2030 term

Newly elected, the new head of the sport immediately outlined his team's roadmap for the next four years. His program is structured around three major pillars:

1. Infrastructure: Construction of a training hall dedicated exclusively to the national team.
2. Technical support: Provision of new equipment for the fourteen regional leagues.
3. Outreach: Continuation of development projects and strengthening of Madagascar's presence on the international stage.

"I will try to continue the projects for the development and promotion of kickboxing in Madagascar," said José Rafidison, showing his desire to continue in the past while bringing a new breath of fresh air.