WKF President Antonio Espinós has been awarded the Japanese Order of the Rising Sun, Gold and Silver Star. The prestigious award is granted by the government of Japan to individuals who have made eminent achievements in international relations and the promotion of the Japanese culture and values. 

WKF President Antonio Espinós has been awarded the Japanese Order of the Rising Sun, Gold and Silver Star. The prestigious award is granted by the government of Japan to individuals who have made eminent achievements in international relations and the promotion of the Japanese culture and values. 

One of the highest orders bestowed by the Japanese government, and one of the biggest recognitions conferred to non-Japanese, the Order of the Rising Sun, Gold and Silver Star recognises Mr. Espinós’ tireless dedication and contribution to the progress of Karate, a sport with strong connections with the Japanese culture. The award also acknowledges the hard work and efforts of the head of the WKF in taking Karate to its inclusion in the sports programme of the Olympic Games Tokyo 2020. 

“It is an unbelievably great honour to receive the Order of the Rising Sun, Gold and Silver Star. I am extremely grateful to those who have made possible to have such a prestigious recognition bestowed on me and on our sport. This distinction should be considered as one for all the Karate family,” declared WKF President Antonio Espinós. 

“The WKF is committed to promoting Karate all around the world. Our sport has an inherent relation with Japan and the Japanese culture, and we are very pleased to have the opportunity to spread the values and tradition that we share with Japan. As Karate is ready to making its Olympic debut, I am convinced that the Karate competition in Tokyo 2020 will be a celebration of these values and traditions,” added Mr. Espinós. 

Mr. Espinós will receive the award at a special ceremony to be held in Tokyo on November 26th.