BFI Appoints Rickard Nilsson to Lead Sports Science Till 2028

The Boxing Federation of India (BFI) has appointed Swedish strength-and-conditioning expert Rickard Nilsson as its Head of Sports Science until the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. The appointment aims to strengthen scientific training methods, performance monitoring and athlete development within the Indian boxing programme.

Nilsson will work closely with Indian boxers and the coaching staff to introduce structured, evidence-based approaches to physical preparation and performance improvement.

Over 30 Years of International Experience

Nilsson has more than 30 years of experience in strength and conditioning, having worked with elite athletes across the world. He has also been associated with the Swedish Olympic contingent and previously worked with Indian boxers in 2019. Before joining BFI, he was a weightlifter who represented Sweden at the Olympic level.

BFI President Ajay Singh said the appointment marks an important step towards strengthening the federation’s sports science ecosystem and adopting a systematic approach to athlete preparation.

75 Days of On-Ground Engagement Annually

Under his terms of engagement, Nilsson will spend 75 days every year with the Indian boxing team in multiple phases. He will provide remote support to the BFI Sports Science team during the remaining period.

His responsibilities will include monitoring athletes’ progress, analysing performance data, preparing scientific training plans and providing regular expert recommendations to improve training and development programmes.

Focus on Physical Preparation and Recovery

Nilsson expressed confidence in the potential of Indian boxers and said he would work closely with coaches to establish a coordinated approach to physical preparation, training load management and recovery.

The initiative is expected to ensure more individualised training programmes and consistent performance assessment as Indian boxers prepare for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.