8 out of 12 defending champions will fight to stay Europe’s best karatekas

8 reigning European Champions headline the 49th European Karate Championships in Tampere, Finland, next week. Competition should be exciting in all weight categories with champions, newcomers and veterans vying for the medals.

In the women’s, four out of six defending champions are competing : Yaiza Martin Abello (ESP, Kata), Alexandra Recchia (FRA, -50Kg), Tuba Yenen (TUR, -55Kg), Anita Serogina (UKR, -61Kg).
In the men’s four reigning European Champions have returned: Damian Hugo Quintero (ESP, Kata), Aykut Kaya (TUR, -60Kg), Rafael Aghayev (AZE,-75Kg), Enes Erkan (TUR, +84Kg).

A strong field of 43 nations and 480 athletes is ready to take part in the 49th European Senior Championships in Tampere, Finland. Competition will start on Thursday 1st and last until Sunday 4th.

The detailed programme and final list of registered athletes can be found here