From: Sport Above Politics Movement
9 February 2026

To: European Karate Federation (EKF)

Statement: Unacceptable Discrimination Against Kosovo Athletes in European Karate Cadet, Junior & U21 Championships

We, the Sport Above Politics Movement, are writing to strongly condemn the decision made by the European Karate Federation (EKF) regarding the exclusion of Kosovo athletes from the European Karate Championships for Cadet, Junior & U21 held in Limassol, Cyprus.

It is absolutely unacceptable that Kosovo athletes were not allowed to participate with their national symbols, despite the EKF offering the option for participation without these symbols. Participation without national symbols is not an acceptable solution, as it undermines the principle of equality for all athletes. Allowing any athlete to compete only under restricted circumstances, and denying them the ability to represent their country fully, sends the wrong message to the entire world of sports.

The statement made by the Chairman of the Organizing Committee of the European Karate Federation, Marton Falusi, that the main objective of EKF remains to ensure the participation of competitors whenever possible, is fundamentally unjust, unacceptable, and misguided. The reality is that participation with full recognition and national symbols should be guaranteed for all athletes without compromise. If a host nation cannot provide the same rights and respect for all participating athletes due to the political stance of its government, that country should not be allowed to organize such international competitions.

Even though Cyprus, politically, does not recognize the independence of Kosovo, it is important to emphasize that the Kosovo Karate Federation is a full member of the EKF, and as such, its athletes should have the right to compete under their national identity. Allowing Kosovo athletes to participate in international sports events does not, in any way, constitute political endorsement. The essence of sport is about unity, inclusivity, and equal participation for all, irrespective of political disputes. Sports should remain free from political interference, as their primary goal is to foster mutual respect and understanding.

As representatives of sports, we must prioritize unity and the equal rights of all athletes, regardless of the political climate. It is truly a shame to see that a governing body of sports would fail to uphold its duties towards all athletes based on their merits alone, free of political influence. We believe that this situation could have been avoided, and that the championships should have been cancelled rather than proceed under conditions that deliberately excluded certain athletes.

The Sport Above Politics Movement firmly believes that sports should be a unifying force, free of political interference. We stand with all athletes who seek to compete in their respective fields and will continue to advocate for the respect of their rights, especially in cases where they have been unjustly denied.

We hope the European Karate Federation will take immediate action to right this wrong and ensure that such a situation never arises again in the future.

Sport Above Politics shall prevail.

Sincerely,
Dr. Astrit Hasani, Founder
Sport Above Politics Movement