The 45th edition of the Grand Prix Slovakia took place this past weekend in Bratislava, bringing together over 2,400 athletes from 43 countries. WKF and EKF President Antonio Espinós travelled to Slovakia to attend one of the top tournaments in the European karate circuit, featuring participants from U10 categories to senior levels across all categories.
Mr Espinós was accompanied by EKF General Secretary Davor Cipek, with several top officials in the country underscoring the competition’s importance on the international stage with their attendance.
With 11 tatamis in operation throughout the tournament, the Grand Prix Slovakia showcased high-level competition and top-tier organisation. Ukraine emerged as the dominant force, securing 32 gold medals. Hosts Slovakia followed with 15 golds, while Latvia claimed third place with 9 gold medals. The event’s success reinforces the sport’s growth and highlights its bright future in the region.
WKF and EKF President Antonio Espinós said:
“The 45th edition of the Grand Prix Slovakia has once again proven why it is one of the most prestigious tournaments in the continental karate calendar. With over 2,400 athletes competing in 11 tatamis, this event exemplifies the strength and unity of the European karate community. I extend my sincere gratitude to the Slovak Karate Federation and its president, Daniel Liska, for their outstanding efforts in hosting such a top-level event.”
Top picture: WKF and EKF President Antonio Espinós addresses the audience during the opening ceremony.
From left to right: EKF General Secretary Davor Cipek, the State Secretary of Sport of the Ministry of Tourism and Sport Ivana Sufliarska Libiakova, and WKF and EKF President Antonio Espinós.
WKF and EKF President Antonio Espinós hands out a recognition to Slovak Karate Federation president Daniel Liska.
WKF and EKF President Antonio Espinós was honoured at the 45th Grand Prix Slovakia.
The event gathered over 2400 athletes from 43 countries.
From left to right: President of Slovenian Karate Federation Mihael Cigler, the Honorary President of the Olympic Committee of Slovakia František Chmelár, the President of Slovakian Karate Union Daniel Liška, State Secretary of Sports of the Ministry of Tourism and Sport Ivana Sufliarska Libiakova, WKF and EKF President Antonio Espinós, EKF General Secretary Davor Cipek, EKF Vice President Slavoljub Piper, and EKF Executive Committee member George Russbacher.
The Grand Prix Slovakia is one of the most prestigious events of the European international calendar.