The 24th Balkan Karate Championship for Cadets, Juniors, and U21 concluded in Sarajevo, marking the largest event of its kind with a record tally of competitors from all 13 Balkan national federations. From November 8th to 10th, top young athletes showcased their skills, in an event that had Bosnia and Herzegovina emerging as the leading country in the final medal standings, with 36 medals. Serbia and Turkey also made impressive marks with eight and seven gold medals, respectively.

The tournament also saw a significant gathering of regional karate leaders. During the Executive Committee meeting of the Karate Federation of the Balkans (KFB), officials discussed strategic directions for karate’s growth in the region. General Secretary of the European Karate Federation (EKF) and a member of the World Karate Federation’s Executive Committee, Davor Cipek, provided updates on the latest developments at the European and world levels, including highlights on future international milestones for the sport, such as the Karate World Cup in Pamplona, the 2027 European Games in Istanbul, and Karate’s prospects for the 2032 Olympic Games in Brisbane.

The opening ceremony welcomed prominent figures including Miroljub Kremenovic, President of the Karate Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina; Davor Cipek, President of the Karate Federation of the Balkans and WKF Executive Committee member; Haris Fazlagic, Director of the Sarajevo Tourist Organisation; and Slavoljub Piper, General Secretary of the KFB and Vice President of the European Karate Federation.

In the U21 category, the hosts of Bosnia and Herzegovina led the way to gold after securing five gold medals. Notable victories included the U21 Kata Male Team, Female Kumite Team, and Male Kumite Team events, with golden performances by Emina Sipovic and Toni Pipal. These achievements further solidified the country’s dominance in the competition.

WKF and EKF President Antonio Espinós said after the event:

"The 24th Balkan Karate Championship for Cadets, Juniors, and U21 in Sarajevo represents an inspiring achievement for our sport. With record-breaking participation, this event stands as the most attended of its kind, showcasing karate's growing impact and appeal across the Balkans. I extend my sincere gratitude to the Karate Federation of the Balkans and its President, Davor Cipek, for their dedication and hard work in elevating karate within their region.”

From left to right: KFB Executive Committee member Slavenko Bajic, KFB Sports Director and Executive Committee member Dragoljub Fatic, KFB Executive Committee member Sinisa Gataric, KFB Secretary General and EKF vice president Slavoljub Piper,  President of KFB and EKF Secretary General Davor Cipek,  KFB Executive Committee member Strahinja Tepavcevic, KFB vice president Octavian Amzulescu.

 President of KFB and EKF Secretary General Davor Cipek during the opening ceremony.

The Executive Committee of the KFB in session.