Referee Briefing Sets Up Officials Ahead of Massive Karate One Youth League Porec

The referees who will officiate at the Karate One Youth League Poreč gathered at the official Referee Briefing on Wednesday ahead of the start of one of the world's largest youth karate events. The meeting was led by Event Chief Referee and WKF Referee Commission member Guido Abdalla, and was chaired by WKF President Antonio Espinós and Croatian Karate Union President and WKF Executive Committee member Davor Cipek, with WKF CEO Sara Wolff also in attendance.

The session reviewed the latest competition rules and reinforced a unified approach to officiating throughout the tournament. Particular attention was given to the application of the rules in age-group competition, ensuring consistency across all categories.

The Karate One Youth League Poreč will welcome more than 2,900 athletes from 66 countries, confirming its place among the most prestigious and best-attended youth karate events on the international calendar.

Speaking during the meeting, WKF President Antonio Espinós highlighted the importance of the referees' work in an event of this scale.

"The Karate One Youth League Poreč brings together thousands of young athletes from around the world, making it one of the highlights of our international karate calendar. With competition running on eight tatamis, it is essential that our referees apply the rules with consistency and confidence. Your commitment ensures fair competition and protects the integrity of our sport. As guardians of the competition rules, your work is fundamental to the success of this event and to the experience of every young athlete."

"I would like to express my sincere gratitude to Mr. Davor Cipek and the Croatian Karate Union for their outstanding commitment to this competition. The Karate One Youth League Poreč is a wonderful showcase of the values of karate and a clear demonstration of the positive impact our sport has on young people across the world."

(Top picture: WKF President Antonio Espinós addresses the referees in Poreč)

Hundreds of referees have travelled to Poreč to participate in the event.

The session was managed by Event Chief Referee and WKF Referee Commission member Guido Abdalla

WKF President Antonio Espinós, Croatian Karate Union President and WKF Executive Committee member Davor Cipek, and WKF CEO Sara Wolff