World Karate Federation (WKF) has emphasized the importance of professionalism among international referees who will officiate karate competitions at the 2025 World Karate Games (TWG) in Chengdu, China, from August 7-17.
"The quality of refereeing improves when we all work together. We must strive to collaborate as a team throughout the two-day event here, as teamwork is key to our success," WKF President Antonio Espinos said at a meeting ahead of the karate competition at TWG 2025, as quoted from the official WKF website.
In the meeting, Espinos emphasized the importance of consistency, fairness, and accuracy in decision-making.
He emphasized that this is non-negotiable when referees work in major multi-sport events such as the World Games.
The best referee team fielded at the 2025 TWG event is also expected to consistently demonstrate their best abilities, just as they have in the karate events they have participated in over the years.
"Now, we have the opportunity to celebrate excellence and dedication by truly reflecting the values of karate," Espinos said.
He continued, with Javier Escalante at the head of the Referees Commission, the referees are in the best hands to ensure everything runs smoothly.
Escalante, he said, has been instrumental in leading the WKF referee development initiative, with clarity, focus and consistency.
The karate competition at TWG started on Friday (8/8) and ended on Saturday (9/8).
Based on the official report on The World Games website, TWG 2025 will feature canoeing ( dragon boat ), duathlon, karate, kickboxing , rock climbing, and wushu.
