A symbolic countdown to the start of the 60th anniversary European Karate Championship for adults was launched on Monday in the heart of Yerevan, on Northern Avenue. Just over two weeks remain until the prestigious tournament kicks off.
The ceremony was attended by Armenia’s Deputy Minister of Education, Science, Culture and Sports, Asmik Avagyan, and the President of the National Karate Federation, Vazgen Harutyunyan.
“This is a great honor for Armenia. Hosting such a significant sporting event is an important step toward strengthening the country’s international image in the sports arena,” Avagyan noted. She emphasized that Eastern martial arts are very popular among Armenian youth, and tournaments like this promote the further development of karate in the republic.
Federation President Vazgen Harutyunyan stated that preparations for the championship are going according to plan, and most of the organizational work has already been completed. He also reminded that hosting a tournament of this level is not only a recognition but also valuable experience ahead of the European Junior and U21 Championship, which Armenia will host in 2027. According to him, the youth tournament is expected to be even larger — both in terms of the number of participants and organizational standards.
The European Championship for adults will be held in Yerevan from May 7 to 11. Over 1,000 athletes and officials from more than 50 countries are expected to attend. The official opening ceremony will take place on May 8, with the main final bouts scheduled for May 10 and 11.