WKF Para-Karate Commissioner and WKF Vice President Wolfgang Weigert travelled to Paris this week to attend the Paralympic Games Paris 2024. During his visit, Mr. Weigert engaged in crucial discussions with key figures of the Paralympic movement, furthering the case for the inclusion of Para-Karate in future Paralympic Games.

Mr. Weigert had a productive short meeting with International Paralympic Committee (IPC) President Andrew Parsons. The discussion focused on the unique benefits that Para-Karate can bring to the Paralympic programme, with Mr. Weigert emphasising Para-Karate’s potential to enhance the diversity and inclusivity of the Paralympic Games.

Mr. Weigert also held important discussions with Virtus President Marc Truffaut and Virtus CEO Nick Parr. Virtus: World Intellectual Impairment Sport, which has been in partnership with WKF since 2020, plays a pivotal role in promoting Karate for athletes with intellectual impairments. The meeting centred on expanding this cooperation to maximise the chances of Para-Karate's inclusion in the Paralympic Games, specifically in the Brisbane 2032 Games.

In this sense, Mr. Weigert also discussed Para-Karate’s Paralympic prospects with IPC Executive Committee Member and CEO of Sport Inclusion of Australia, Robyn Smith. The conversation focused on developing a strategic roadmap for the possible inclusion of Para-Karate in the Paralympic Games of Brisbane 2032.

WKF President Antonio Espinós said:  

“I want to thank Mr. Weigert for his outstanding efforts in advocating for the inclusion of Para-Karate in the Paralympic Games. The development of Para-Karate has always been central to the WKF’s strategic vision. Over the years, Para-Karate has grown to become one of the most effective, popular, and cherished disciplines for athletes with impairments. The inclusion of Para-Karate in the programmes of the World Senior Championships and senior continental championships, our partnership with Virtus, and the increasing number of Para-Karate athletes worldwide all demonstrate that Para-Karate deserves a place in the Paralympic Games.”

“After witnessing the inspiring demonstrations of our Para-Karate athletes at our events, we are convinced of the tremendous added value that Para-Karate would bring to the Paralympic movement; we hope that Para-Karate will be considered for inclusion on the programme of Brisbane 2032.” 

Top picture: WKF Para-Karate Commissioner and WKF Vice President Wolfgang Weigert (left) poses with IPC President Andrew Parsons.

Mr Weigert discussed Para-Karate’s Paralympic prospects with IPC Executive Committee Member and CEO of Sport Inclusion of Australia, Robyn Smith.

From left to right: Virtus President Marc Truffaut, WKF Para-Karate Commissioner and WKF Vice President Wolfgang Weigert, and Virtus CEO Nick Parr.