Karate

    
           

    In addition to the two sports, also Sambo was granted provisional recognition for three years. The International Federations of the three sports will now be able to receive funding from the IOC and apply for grants for their development programmes. Full recognition has to be granted by the IOC Session.

    World Association of Kickboxing Organizations (WAKO) also welcomed the recognition of their sport. The organisation has 129 affiliated countries, of which over 90 are formally recognised by their countries' Ministry of Sport or National Olympic Committee.

Francesca Falsoni, serving as WAKO interim President following the death of Borislav Pelevic last month, believes the governing body’s efforts have paid off.

    IWGA Board member, President of the World Karate Federation Antonio Espinós received the Japanese Order of the Rising Sun, Gold and Silver Star in Tokyo. Mr Espinós was recognised for his contribution to the progress of Karate, a sport that is born in Japan.

    The Order of the Rising Sun, Gold and Silver Star is one of the highest orders conferred by the Japanese government. The order is awarded to those who have made distinguished achievements in international relations, promotion of Japanese culture, advancements in their field, development in welfare or preservation of the environment.

“It is a great honour to be bestowed such a prestigious award. Karate is a universal sport with presence all over the world. However, we proudly try to preserve the roots of Karate and its origins going back to the Japanese traditional culture. We will continue supporting the values that we share with the Japanese culture as this Order recognises Karate’s influence in both the traditional and universal stages of our discipline. On behalf of the World Karate Federation, I am extremely grateful for this recognition,” said WKF President Antonio Espinós to Around the Rings.