WKF Youth Camp Opens in Porec, Bringing Together Thousands of Young Karate Athletes

The 2026 WKF Youth Camp officially opened on Sunday in Poreč, Croatia, welcoming thousands of young karate athletes from around the world for three days of training, learning, and friendship.

The opening ceremony was led by the Mayor of Poreč, Loris Peršurić, and the President of the Croatian Karate Union and WKF Executive Committee member, Davor Cipek. They welcomed participants, coaches, and families to one of the biggest annual celebrations of youth karate.

Also attending the ceremony were this year's world-class instructors: Douglas Brose (Brazil), Irina Zaretska (Azerbaijan), Andjelo Kvesić (Croatia), Damian Quintero (Spain), and Alessio Ghinami (Italy). Throughout the camp, these renowned athletes will lead training sessions and share their knowledge and experience with the next generation of karate practitioners.

Activities began on Sunday with the first training courses, marking the start of an exciting three-day programme. Young athletes from 12 to 20 are taking part in technical sessions designed to improve their skills while learning directly from some of the sport's biggest stars.

This year's instructors, from left to right:Douglas Brose (Brazil), Irina Zaretska (Azerbaijan), Andjelo Kvesić (Croatia), Alessio Ghinami (Italy) and Damian Quintero (Spain).

More than just a training event, the WKF Youth Camp offers participants the opportunity to meet fellow karate athletes from different countries, exchange experiences, and build friendships through the shared values of respect, discipline, and fair play.

Following the Camp, Porec will host the anticipated fourth stop of the Karate One Youth League, from July 2 to 5. Over 2700 young athletes from 71 countries have registered to attend the event, making it the largest Karate event of the year.

The opening ceremony was headed bythe Mayor of Poreč, Loris Peršurić, and the President of the Croatian Karate Union and WKF Executive Committee member, Davor Cipek

(Pictures: Croatian Karate Union)