The opening ceremony of the 2018 Karate World Championships officially inaugurated the historic event being held this week in Madrid (Spain). A spectacular presentation highlighted the beauty of Karate in the celebration of the sport that took place at WiZink Center sports hall on Thursday. 

The opening ceremony of the 2018 Karate World Championships officially inaugurated the historic event being held this week in Madrid (Spain). A spectacular presentation highlighted the beauty of Karate in the celebration of the sport that took place at WiZink Center sports hall on Thursday. 

“Karate is in debt with the region of Madrid. They made possible for us to be here today and without their assistance, this event would have not happened,” said WKF President Antonio Espinós during his speech.

“This event has been breaking all records. It is a great moment for all karatekas to be here; you will forever remember these championships, you will remember that you were here in Madrid for many years to come. You will always be proud of sharing this historical event with us,” added the head of the World Karate Federation. 

The official opening of the 24th edition of the championships started with the traditional parade of flags. The 138 nations that are participating in the tournament were represented in the display of flags with athletes proudly honouring their nations. 

Then, a spectacular mapping show called “Karate Soul” took the stage. The audience at WiZink Center and fans following the event on karateworld.tv were amazed by the outstanding demonstration of two Kata teams and by the exceptional mapping images reflected over the tatamis. It is the first time in the history of the sport that such demonstrations are presented in a Karate event. The great celebration of the sport of “Karate Soul” will be repeated again on the weekend.