Karate and Brisbane 2032: Talks begin
The meeting, attended by Brisbane 2032 CEO Cindy Hook, and Director of Sport Brendan Keane, focused on karate's global impact and its potential contribution to the Games.
The WKF presented data indicating a global participation of approximately 100 million individuals and a fan base of 320 million. The discussion centered on karate's potential to engage new generations and promote grassroots participation in Australia.
Karate's presence in Australia was highlighted, with nearly 200,000 annual participants and its inclusion in school programs focused on well-being and resilience. Karate Australia's partnership with the Sporting Schools program was also noted.
Oceania Karate Federation President Michael Kassis, Karate Australia President Hani Zahra, and WKF Oceania Development Lead Katrina de Jersey attended the meeting.
The WKF emphasized karate's Olympic debut at the Tokyo 2020 Games and its previous inclusion in the Buenos Aires 2018 Youth Olympic Games.
WKF President Antonio Espinós expressed the federation's commitment to collaborating with stakeholders to secure karate's place in Brisbane 2032. He emphasized karate's alignment with Olympic values and its potential to engage athletes and spectators.
The WKF and Karate Australia expressed their intent to continue discussions with the Brisbane 2032 Organizing Committee.
Written by Rafael Khalatyan - Inside The Games