The official opening press conference for the 2026 European Senior Karate Championships was held in Frankfurt ahead of the continental event scheduled for May 20–24, 2026. The championships will bring Europe’s top karate athletes to Germany for five days of competition in kata, kumite, and para-karate.
The press conference was attended by German Karate Federation president, EKF Executive Committee member and WKF Vice President Wolfgang Weigert, European Championship Ambassador Prof. Dr. Ernes Erko Kalac, world champion Johanna Kneer, and Frankfurt Mayor Mike Josef.
During the presentation, organisers highlighted the importance of hosting the championships in Frankfurt, while the strong cooperation between local authorities, the German Karate Federation, and the European Karate Federation in preparing a memorable event was highlighted
German Karate Federation president, EKF Executive Committee member and WKF Vice President Wolfgang Weigert, emphasised the importance of hosting this particular event in Germany.
“We expect a very inclusive tournament. In the Para-Karate category, we are looking forward to 81 participants from 22 nations – the most ever in the history of the European Championships. Furthermore, it will be the most sustainable European Championships ever. The European Union is supporting our extensive initiatives in this area with its Erasmus+ program ‘Fight for Future’,” he said.
Johanna Kneer, one of Germany’s leading karate athletes, expressed her excitement about competing at home.
“A European Championship in our own country is something very special; we’ve all been eagerly anticipating it for a long time. Our families and friends will be in the arena. That will create a very special energy there, which isn’t something I experience every day in my competitions,” she added.
Frankfurt Mayor Mike Josef welcomed the event to the city and highlighted Frankfurt’s experience in hosting international sporting competitions.
“For us, being a ‘sporting city’ means versatility and diversity in sports. I am particularly proud that the European Para-Karate Championships are taking place alongside the Karate Championships. This is an important sign for inclusion,” he stated.
WKF and EKF President Antonio Espinós praised the efforts of the German Karate Federation and its leadership ahead of the event:
“I would like to thank the German Karate Federation and its President, Wolfgang Weigert, for their courage and commitment in organising a first-class event in Frankfurt. I am sure that these championships will continue expanding the excellence of karate events and will be a true and glorious celebration of the values of karate and the growing popularity of our sport in Europe.”
(Picture: From left to right: European Championship Ambassador Prof. Dr. Ernes Erko Kalac, German Karate Federation president, EKF Executive Committee member and WKF Vice President Wolfgang Weigert, world champion Johanna Kneer, and Frankfurt Mayor Mike Josef.