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- WAKO WORLDWIDE ISSUE 02 OUT NOW
WAKO WORLDWIDE ISSUE 02 IS OUT NOW! The next generation. One global community. The stories shaping the future of kickboxing. WAKO is proud to announce the release of Issue 02 of WAKO Worldwide, the official monthly magazine bringing together the people, events, achievements and developments driving kickboxing forward across the globe. The September 2026 edition puts the spotlight on the next generation of athletes, following the WAKO World Youth Kickboxing Championships in Jesolo, Italy, where 3,700 athletes from 79 nations, representing 4,874 entries, came together on one global stage. But WAKO Worldwide goes far beyond competition results. This latest 24-page edition explores the people behind the sport, the values that unite our international community and the opportunities shaping kickboxing's future. Inside Issue 02: 🥊 The Next Generation – Celebrating young athletes, their achievements and the friendships that extend beyond the medals. 🌍 Around the World – News and developments from Asia, Europe and the Americas. 🏅 The Road Ahead – Kickboxing's place at the World Games 2029 and the journey towards the European Games 2027. 👩 Women in Sport – Recognising initiatives creating more opportunities for women across kickboxing. 🤝 Beyond the Fight – Para and Inclusive Kickboxing, safeguarding, education and athlete development. 📢 Leadership & Community – Updates from the WAKO General Assembly, coaches, officials and the people helping our sport grow. Featuring a message from WAKO President Roy Baker, this edition reflects the progress, ambition and shared values of an international sporting community that continues to grow stronger. One WAKO. One Champion. One Brand Globally. 📖 WAKO Worldwide – Issue 02 | September 2026 OUT NOW – Discover the stories behind the sport. #WAKO #WAKOWorldwide #Kickboxing #OneWAKO #WorldKickboxing #YouthKickboxing
- WAKO defines qualification pathway for European Games 2027
WAKO has defined the qualification criteria for the European Games 2027, which will take place in Istanbul, Türkiye, from 16–27 June 2027. As in 2023, three kickboxing disciplines have been confirmed for the Games. The official qualifying event will be the WAKO European Kickboxing Championships, taking place in Skopje, North Macedonia, from 6–15 November 2026. The road to Istanbul starts in Skopje!
- 2027 List of Prohibited Substances and Methods
TO ALL WAKO MEMBERS Dear Presidents and General Secretaries, Please be informed that the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) has published the 2027 List of Prohibited Substances and Methods (List), which was approved by WADA’s Executive Committee (ExCo) during its meeting on 10 September 2026 and enters into force on 1 January 2027. You can find the major modifications for the 2027 Prohibited List in the 2027 Summary of Major Modifications and Explanatory Notes. The Therapeutic Use Exemption Program We would like to remind that Athletes who have a legitimate medical reason for using a prohibited substance or method that is on the List can apply for a Therapeutic Use Exemption (TUE) to determine whether they meet the criteria outlined in the International Standard for Therapeutic Use Exemptions (ISTUE). Educational resources WADA has also provided educational resources which can be accessed on the Agency’s Anti-Doping Education and Learning Platform (ADEL), while an Athlete and ASP Guide to the 2027 List is expected in December. We kindly ask all WAKO National Federations to forward this e-mail and information to all of your affiliated clubs and members (athletes, coaches, medical personnel, team officials and other Athlete Support Personnel). Thank you for your cooperation in ensuring that all kickboxing athletes and their support personnel are properly informed about and prepared for the changes to the 2027 Prohibited List. Best regards, Barbara Falsoni WAKO Administration www.wako.sport
- Introducing WAKO Worldwide
Introducing WAKO Worldwide — Our New Global E-Zine We’re pleased to launch WAKO Worldwide, a new publication bringing together the people, stories and achievements shaping our global kickboxing community. The first edition, August 2026, features a welcome from WAKO President Roy Baker, news from across the continents, championship highlights and a look ahead to the World Championships in Jesolo. Inside, we also celebrate the development of young athletes, women in sport, inclusive kickboxing and the partnerships supporting our sport’s future—all brought to life through photography from the WAKO community. Whether you’re an athlete, coach, referee, supporter or national federation representative, we invite you to explore the first issue and share it with your community. Read the first edition of WAKO Worldwide below.
- Asian Kickboxing Championships 2026(Senior & Master Divisions) in All Disciplines
TO WAKO ASIA MEMBERS Dear Presidents and General Secretaries, Please find attached the official invitation and package information containing all technical detail for participation to the next Asian Kickboxing Championships 2026(Senior & Master Divisions) in All Disciplines, (Ring Disciplines: Full Contact, Low Kick, K-1) and (Tatami Disciplines: Point Fighting, Light Contact, Kick Light, Musical Forms), that will take place at Olympic Stadium (Indoor Hall), in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, from 11 to 21 December 2026. As previously announced, the results of the Continental Championships will be used where applicable to qualify Asian athletes for the World Games 2027. We are also pleased to inform you that the Government of Cambodia has recently issued an official decree confirming that this prestigious event will take place in Phnom Penh during the above-mentioned dates. Furthermore, we are delighted to announce that entry visas for all participants traveling to Cambodia will be guaranteed upon arrival at Phnom Penh International Airport, provided that you present the official event invitation. To facilitate this process, please contact the Organizing Committee of the Asian Kickboxing Championships in advance with your passport details. (see below Exhibit 2) You will find attached the Asian Kickboxing Championships 2026 Package Information containing all technical detail and following related forms : EXHIBIT 1 - Application Form : To be sent by 20 October 2026 to Asian Kickboxing Championships Organizing Committee, E-mail: info@wakoasia.com and registration.akc2026@wakoasia.com EXHIBIT 2 - Visa Requirement FORM : To be sent 20 October 2026 to Asian Kickboxing Championships Organizing Committee, E-mail:info@wakoasia.com and registration.akc2026@wakoasia.com EXHIBIT 3 - Hotel Reservation : To be sent by 20 October 2026 to Asian Kickboxing Championships Organizing Committee E-mail: info@wakoasia.com and registration.akc2026@wakoasia.com The Asian Championships 2026 "Code of Conduct" : To be sent by 20 October 2026 to Asian Kickboxing Championships Organizing Committee (page 18 and 18 /35 of attached invitation and package information) E-mail: info@wakoasia.com and registration.akc2026@wakoasia.com The preliminary registration form : To be sent by 02 November 2026 to Asian Kickboxing Championships Organizing Committee E-mail: info@wakoasia.com and registration.akc2026@wakoasia.com Please take note of the above deadlines and submit your forms paying particular attention to the Cancellation Policy indicated onpage 6of the attached official invitation and information package. You can find more and updated information on the following link : Asian Kickboxing Championships 2026- Phnom Penh, Cambodia – WAKO Asia Please do not hesitate to contact us if you need any additional information. Kimia Amanpour Administration Office Asian Kickboxing Confederation (WAKO ASIA)
- WAKO Senior, Master and Para-Inclusive European Championship (All Disciplines)
Dear WAKO European Members, Please receive the enclosed official invitation letter together with its relevant forms for participation to the next WAKO Senior, Master and Para-Inclusive European Championship (All Disciplines), that will take place in Skopje, North Macedonia, from 6th to 15th November 2026. You’re kindly requested to pay attention to the following deadlines in order to submit your application forms on due time: CODE OF CONDUCT to be sent by e-mail to: escmacedonia2026@gmail.com not later than 1stSeptember 2026 Appendix 1) - PRELIMINARY ENTRY FORM to be sent by e-mail to: renata@newwaysoftravel.com.mk and in Cc to:escmacedonia2026@gmail.com not later than 30thof June 2026 Appendix 2) - FINAL ENTRY FORM to be sent by e-mail to: renata@newwaysoftravel.com.mk and escmacedonia2026@gmail.com not later than 20thof September 2026 Appendix A) - HOTEL RESERVATION FORM to be sent by e-mail to: renata@newwaysoftravel.com.mk and in Cc to:escmacedonia2026@gmail.com not later than 30thof June 2026 Appendix B) - TRAVEL SCHEDULE FORM to be sent by e-mail to: renata@newwaysoftravel.com.mk and in Cc to:escmacedonia2026@gmail.com not later than 1st September 2026 Appendix C) - APPLICATION FORM FOR VISA REQUEST to be sent by e-mail to: renata@newwaysoftravel.com.mk and in Cc to:escmacedonia2026@gmail.com not later than 1stAugust 2026 ATTENTION! All participating National Federations must arrange their hotel reservation through the Local Organizing Committee Travel Agency NEW WAYS OF TRAVEL. Failure to comply with this requirement will result in the National Federation not being permitted to participate in the Championship. For any further information please read carefully the enclosed documents. Best regards, Barbara Falsoni WAKO Europe Administration
- Breaking News
Breaking news! Appointment of Roy Baker as ARISF Executive Board Member ARISF Executive Board has approved appointment of Mr. Roy Baker, WAKO President, as a Member of the ARISF Executive Board for the current term until 2029. Mr. Raffaele Chiuli, ARISF President, congratulated on this appointment, especially thanking M. Roy Baker for his continued commitment to ARISF and its Members. "We look forward to working closely with you and to the valuable contribution you will bring to the Executive Board," said Chiuli. WAKO President Baker said: "I am honored and sincerely grateful to the President and the ARISF Board for the trust and confidence they have placed in me through my appointment to the ARISF Executive Board. I accept this responsibility with great humility and a clear understanding that this role is one of service. To contribute to the continued growth and unity of the Olympic-recognised sports family, and to help strengthen the important role that our federations play in inspiring and serving athletes around the world. As President of WAKO, I am proud to represent the sport of kickboxing. I look forward to working collaboratively with my fellow Board members to promote good governance, innovation, solidarity, and the shared values of the Olympic Movement. It is both a privilege and an honor to serve. Together, I am confident we can continue to create meaningful opportunities for our sports, our athletes, and future generations." Roy Baker
- WAKO Mediterranean Games, which will be held in Taranto, Italy, from July 31 to August 2, 2026.
TO ALL WAKO MEDITERRANEAN MEMBERS Dear Presidents and General Secretaries, On behalf of WAKO President Roy Baker and WAKO Mediterranean Kickboxing Federation President Salim Kayici, we are pleased to send the official invitation letter, attached herewith, containing all the information required to participate in the WAKO Mediterranean Games, which will be held in Taranto, Italy, from July 31 to August 2, 2026. Should you require any further information or assistance, please do not hesitate to contact us. We look forward to welcoming your delegation to Taranto! Kind regards, Barbara Falsoni WAKO Administration www.wako.sport
- Uzbekistan Kickboxing World Cup 2026, that will be held in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, from 13th to 18th October.
TO ALL WAKO MEMBERS Dear Presidents and Secretary Generals, The Uzbekistan Kickboxing Association warmly invites you ALL (Officials, Coaches, Referees, Athletes) to participate in the upcoming Uzbekistan Kickboxing World Cup 2026, that will be held in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, from 13th to 18th October. Please find the Official Invitation Letter and related Forms herewith attached. This year things have been done bit differently compared to the previous World Cups to ensure maximum convenience and an even more enjoyable experience for all guests. The Opening Ceremony will take place on Wednesday, October 14, at 19:00. To create a truly unique experience, the ceremony will be organized in a separate spectacular arena - distinct from the main competition venue - and will be immediately followed by thrilling Professional Kickboxing Fights. The Uzbekistan Kickboxing Association is confident that everyone will thoroughly enjoy this magnificent show and the professional bouts.So please stay tuned; the organizer will provide more details soon regarding the fight card, including the lineup of international kickboxing stars who will be competing. For any questions or support, please feel free to contact via email - uzbka@inbox.ru - or via WhatsApp at +998 97 733 37 16. The Uzbekistan Kickboxing Association will do its absolute best to ensure you have an exceptional stay and is looking forward to welcoming you all to Tashkent! Best regards, Barbara Falsoni WAKO Administration www.wako.sport
- Official Invitation: Pan American and South American Kickboxing Championships, Chile 2026
WAKO Chile is proud to welcome athletes, delegations, officials and national representatives to Chile for two major continental events in 2026: the Pan American Kickboxing Championship – Seniors & Masters and the South American Kickboxing Championship – Cadets & Juniors. Both championships will take place from August 12 to August 16, 2026, in Olmué, Valparaíso Region, Chile. This important gathering will bring together athletes from across the Americas, celebrating not only high-level competition, but also the values that define kickboxing: discipline, perseverance, respect, friendship and sportsmanship. A Message of Welcome It is with great joy that we welcome all athletes, delegations and authorities arriving in Chile for the Pan American Championship and the South American Championship. This is a special moment for sport across our continent, bringing together talent, cultures and the true spirit of perseverance that unites us all. We would like to recognize the important work of the presidents of each country represented at these championships. Their support, leadership and commitment to the development of kickboxing make the participation and growth of so many athletes possible. Institutional support is essential for events of this magnitude to be delivered with excellence. These championships carry even greater importance as they award points toward both the Pan American and World rankings, raising the level of competition and reinforcing the significance of every match, every performance and every achievement. At this event, we celebrate not only medals, but also dedication, discipline and the dream of going further. Special recognition must also be given to Pablo Acuña, President of WAKO Chile, whose leadership, dedication and organization have been essential in making this event a reality. His commitment to the sport is both admirable and inspiring. Chile is honoured to host this major international event. Visitors will have the opportunity to experience a country of unique beauty, breathtaking landscapes and a vibrant capital city in Santiago. Beyond the competition, delegations can enjoy Chile’s welcoming people, rich culture and outstanding cuisine, making this championship experience even more unforgettable. We wish everyone an excellent competition. May respect, friendship and sportsmanship prevail. Welcome to Chile, and may this event be a great success. Paulo ZorelloPresident Event Information Pan American Kickboxing Championship – Seniors & Masters Location: Olmué, Valparaíso Region, ChileDates: August 12–16, 2026Organizer: WAKO Chile – Federación Deportiva Nacional de Kickboxing WAKO Chile South American Kickboxing Championship – Cadets & Juniors Location: Olmué, Valparaíso Region, ChileDates: August 12–16, 2026Organizer: WAKO Chile – Federación Deportiva Nacional de Kickboxing WAKO Chile Visa Information If your country requires a visa to enter Chile, national federations must contact the Chilean embassy or consulate in their country directly. WAKO Chile will provide, upon request, an official notarized invitation letter to nations of the Americas to support the visa application process. To request an invitation letter, each national federation must contact WAKO Chile by email: presidencia@wakochile.cl Each national federation is responsible for contacting the relevant authorities and applying for visas in a timely manner. Regulations The championships will be conducted under WAKO IF rules, which can be consulted on the official WAKO website: https://wako.sport/ Event Organizer Contact WAKO Chile – Federación Deportiva Nacional de Kickboxing WAKO ChileEmail: presidencia@wakochile.cl
- WAKO & ISF
TO ALL WAKO MEMBERS PRESS RELEASE WAKO and ISF Sign Memorandum of Understanding to Strengthen Global School Sport Cooperation World Association of Kickboxing Organizations (WAKO) and International School Sport Federation (ISF) are proud to announce the signing of aMemorandum of Understanding (MoU) on 22 April 2026, marking the beginning of a new strategic partnership focused on the development of kickboxing within the international school sport movement. This agreement reflects the shared vision of both organizations to promote education through sport, strengthen youth participation, and create new opportunities for student-athletes worldwide. As an organization recognized by the International Olympic Committee, ISF is dedicated to organizing major international school sport events, including the Gymnasiades and worldwide school competitions, while promoting the educational values of sport. WAKO is the sport organization recognized by the International Olympic Committee and is the world governing body regulating, promoting, and developing kickboxing across all continents, with a strong commitment to youth engagement and sporting excellence. Through this Memorandum of Understanding, both parties have agreed to cooperate in several key areas: Supporting the organization of school sport events that include kickboxing Ensuring technically high-level competitions through WAKO expertise Appointing qualified referees and officials for kickboxing events Developing educational programs for young athletes Promoting integrity, fair play, and safeguarding in school sport Strengthening collaboration between the memberships of both organizations worldwide This partnership represents an important milestone for the continued growth of kickboxing among younger generations and further recognition of the sport within the international educational sports community. Both WAKO and ISF look forward to building a successful and long-lasting cooperation that will inspire youth around the world through sport, discipline, and shared values.
- Kickboxing is in The World Games 2029
TO ALL WAKO MEMBERS Dear Presidents and General Secretaries, The International World Games Association has officially unveiled the Sports Programme for The World Games 2029, we are delighted to confirm that Kickboxing is included among the official sports for this prestigious multi-sport event that will be held in Karlsruhe, Germany. This marks another major recognition of Kickboxing’s continued growth and global significance on the international sports stage. WAKO President Roy Baker has commented: “The inclusion of Kickboxing in The World Games 2029 is a proud milestone for our sport and a recognition of the hard work of athletes, coaches, officials, and national federations worldwide. Since appearing at The World Games 2017 as an invitational sport, Kickboxing confirmed its place on the official sports programme in the following editions in 2022 and 2025, and has now once again secured that status for 2029. I am proud to serve as President of WAKO and, together with my team, to work continuously on strengthening the position of kickboxing on the global sports stage. We look forward to showcasing the very best of kickboxing on this prestigious stage.” On last Saturday April 25th President Baker attended the IWGA (International World Games Association) General Assembly in Lausanne, Switzerland, together with Espen Lund, WAKO IF Vice President and General Secretary and WAKO Europe President, who was elected as Board member of the new IWGA Executive Committee for 2026-2030 getting most votes of the board members with 33 out of 39 votes. Anna Arzhanova is the new elected IWGA President succeeding José Perurena López. Perurena was also honored with the title of IWGA Honorary President in recognition of his service and impact on the organization. WAKO thanks him for his excellent service and leadership. Here below the Sports Programme for The World Games 2029: Air Sports - tbc American Football Archery Billiards Boules Sports Canoe Cheerleading Climbing DanceSport Fistball Floorball Flying Disc Gymnastics Handball Hockey Ju-Jitsu Karate Kickboxing Korfball Lacrosse Life Saving Muaythai Orienteering Powerlifting Roller Sports Squash Sumo Tug of War Underwater Sports Waterski/Wakeboard Wushu Additional sports under consideration, pending further final IWGA ExCo approval by 1st July 2026: Baseball/Softball Bowling Racquetball Sambo A second phase later in 2026 will complete the programme, including the announcement of disciplines and medal events, selection of additional disciplines chosen by the host and the inclusion of para-sports. Further information and details regarding WAKO’s participation in The World Games 2029 will follow on due time.












