Update on 2028
by USA-NKF
Dear Members of USA Karate,
I hope this message finds you well. I am writing to share an important update regarding our continued efforts to promote and elevate the sport of karate on the global stage.
The World Karate Federation (WKF) recently announced that karate will not be included in the final selection of additional sports for the LA28 Olympic Games Programme. This news is particularly disappointing for us, the future hosts of the 2028 Games.
Positive developments and growth within our sport have marked our journey toward this goal. The process leading up to this decision began almost two years ago under strict confidentiality terms. Throughout this journey, the WKF dedicated enormous resources and efforts to make our case for inclusion. The federation formed a dedicated working team consisting of individuals from various constituent groups of the WKF, including national federations, athlete representatives, executive committee and commission members, and the WKF staff. We also sought guidance from Olympic-specialized external consultants to ensure our approach was strategic and well-informed. In addition, the strategy engaged key institutional support at the highest levels, both governmental and from the business sector, to advocate for our cause.
As someone deeply involved in this journey, the big takeaway is that it has taught us valuable lessons and that we must now focus on the future. There are still opportunities to strive for, both on the international stage and also right here in the US.
Thank you all for your support and dedication to karate in the United States. Together, we have made significant progress over the years, and our journey is far from over. Let us harness the lessons learned and the positive developments we have achieved as we move forward with renewed vigor and determination.
Thank you for being a part of the USA Karate community, and let us continue to work hand in hand to achieve our shared goals for the future of karate.
Sincerely,
Elisa Au
Board Chair, USA Karate