Monday, 25 May 2026
Egypt gears up for historic return of World Karate Championships after 37-year hiatus
Egypt will tomorrow welcome the world’s top karate athletes as the 2025 World Karate Championships officially kick off at Cairo International Stadium Complex, marking the country’s first time hosting the prestigious event since 1988 — a 37-year gap that ends in spectacular fashion.
At a packed press conference held today at the stadium’s main hall, Dr. Ashraf Sobhi, Egypt’s Minister of Youth and Sports, unveiled full details of the championship, which runs from November 27 to 30, 2025, and will feature more than 800 athletes from 88 countries across all continents — one of the largest participations in the tournament’s history.
The event was attended by the sport’s highest authorities, including:
- Antonio Espinós, President of the World Karate Federation (WKF)
- Maj. Gen. Nasser Al-Razouqi, WKF Vice President
- Béchir Cherif, WKF Vice President and President of the Mediterranean Karate Federations Union
- Mohamed El-Dahrawi, President of the Egyptian Karate Federation
- Dr. Ibrahim Al-Qannas, President of the Arab Karate Federation
Speaking on behalf of the global governing body, WKF President Antonio Espinós declared: “Choosing Egypt to host the World Championships after 37 years was not a random decision. Cairo has proven time and again its outstanding organizational capabilities. The infrastructure upgrades we have witnessed, combined with Egypt’s passion for karate, guarantee that this edition will be one of the best — if not the best — in the championship’s history.”
Minister Sobhi emphasized that the return of the World Championships reflects the unwavering political support for Egyptian sport under President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi and the comprehensive renaissance the sector has undergone in recent years.
“This is not just a sporting event,” Sobhi stated. “It is a powerful message to the world that Egypt is fully capable of organizing the biggest international tournaments to the highest standards. With 88 nations competing, we are reaffirming Egypt’s position as a preferred global sports destination and one of the world’s leading sporting capitals.”
He highlighted the strategic goal of using major events to boost sports tourism and contribute directly to the national economy, adding that the ministry worked hand-in-hand with the Egyptian Karate Federation and all relevant authorities to deliver an “exceptional edition worthy of Egypt’s name.”
Mohamed El-Dahrawi, President of the Egyptian Karate Federation, described the hosting as “a defining milestone” and confirmed that the national team enters the competition with high ambitions. “Our athletes have undergone intensive preparation and are determined to climb the podium in front of their home crowd,” he said.
The championships will be held inside the fully renovated Cairo Stadium Indoor Halls Complex, equipped with the latest competition mats, medical facilities, and broadcast technology to meet WKF’s strict standards.
All officials stressed Egypt’s complete readiness, predicting fierce competition and an unforgettable experience for participants and spectators alike.
The opening ceremony takes place tomorrow evening, with live broadcasts expected on major sports networks worldwide.
With 88 countries, thousands of athletes and coaches, and global karate eyes fixed on Cairo, Egypt is set to write a new golden chapter in its rich sporting legacy.