World Karate Federation (WKF) President Antonio Espinós visited the headquarters of the French Karate Federation (FFK) in Paris to meet with Gilles Cherdieu, the newly elected President of the FFK. Cherdieu’s election marks the start of a new stage for karate in one of the countries where the sport enjoys strong support and a long tradition of success.
A former two-time World Champion and four-time Continental Champion, and previously FFK’s Technical Director, Cherdieu was elected on November 28 with 75% of the vote.
During the meeting, both leaders reviewed the current situation of karate in France and shared views on the sport’s development in Europe. They also explored the possibility of organising future international events in the country. France has been a key contributor to the growth of karate worldwide, and both the WKF and FFK expressed their commitment to strengthening cooperation as the sport continues to evolve.
WKF President Antonio Espinós thanked President Cherdieu for hosting the meeting and expressed confidence in the future of karate under his leadership. He stated:
“I want to thank Mr. Cherdieu for welcoming me at the FFK headquarters. Mr. Cherdieu was not only a mighty competitor, he is experienced in all aspects of the sport. His election to run the FFK is good news for Karate, and I am sure that with his support, we can continue growing the sport in the country and all over Europe even more. We are committed to continuing to work closely with the French Karate Federation to encourage long-term growth and to ensure that France remains a strong actor in the promotion of karate worldwide.”
(Top picture: WKF President Antonio Espinós and newly elected President of the FFK Gilles Cherdieu)