The 2024 World Cadet, Junior, & U21 Karate Championships concluded successfully in Venice-Jesolo, leaving a lasting impression on the global karate community as one of the most exceptional and memorable Karate events of its kind. WKF President Antonio Espinós praised the outstanding work of FIJLKAM and the President of its Karate sector Davide Benetello for hosting a Karate event to remember.

Nearly 2,000 young athletes from 109 countries came together to participate, showcasing the growing popularity of karate and its strength at younger ages. The event in Venice-Jesolo stands out as one of the best-organised and most exceptional karate tournaments in recent history, offering an unforgettable experience for both participants and spectators.

The event’s success was the result of the visionary leadership of Davide Benetello, President of FIJLKAM's Karate sector and a member of the WKF Executive Committee. Under his guidance, the organising team from FIJLKAM (Italian Federation of Judo, Wrestling, Karate, and Martial Arts) delivered a flawlessly executed championship. Their dedication to karate, combined with meticulous planning, ensured the smooth operation of the event and an unforgettable experience for all attendees.

The championship’s spirit of friendship, honour, and respect culminated at a celebrated gala dinner on Saturday. Attendees included representatives of national federations, officials, athletes, coaches, and other members of the karate family. The Italian Federation and Davide Benetello were acknowledged at the event for their hospitality and their commitment to the values of karate, serving as exemplary role models for the global community.

World Karate Federation President Antonio Espinós said:

"The 2024 World Cadet, Junior & U21 Championships in Italy have set a new benchmark for karate championships, opening a new era in how our sport is celebrated and experienced. I want to personally thank FIJLKAM for their courage and efforts to host one of the best World Championships ever. Also, our gratitude to Davide Benetello for his vision and leadership and for his steadfast and unparalleled contribution to making karate a better sport day after day. The success of this championship is a reflection of his dedication and the hard work of all the members of the Italian Karate family.”

The 2024 World Cadet, Junior, & U21 Championships will be remembered for the sense of unity within the global karate family and extend the success of the last editions of major World Karate events. The event travels now to Rabat (Morocco), where the next edition will be held in 2026.

Top picture: From left to right: CEO of the Multisports Veneto SRL SD Alberto Vardiero, President of the Local Organising Committee Vladi Vardiero,  FIJLKAM ‘s President of the Karate sector and WKF Executive Committee member Davide Benetello, WKF President Antonio Espinós, WKF General Secretary Toshihisa Nagura, FIJLKAM President Domenico Falcone, and President of the Organising Commission of Karate Fijlkam and Project Manager for the World Championship in Venice-Jesolo Marco Scaramuzza.

FIJLKAM ‘s President of the Karate Sector and WKF Executive Committee member Davide Benetello, and WKF President Antonio Espinós (right) at the gala dinner.

WKF President Antonio Espinós praised the excellent organisation of the event.

President of the Morocco Karate Federation Mohamed Mouktabil, WKF President Antonio Espinós and FIJLKAM ‘s President of the Karate Sector, and WKF Executive Committee member Davide Benetello and the flag handover at the closing ceremony.

FIJLKAM ‘s President of the Karate sector and WKF Executive Committee member Davide Benetello.