As the countdown to The World Games in Chengdu begins, another important event is taking shape: the election of the IWGA Athletes’ Committee, a body responsible for representing the voices and concerns of athletes within the World Games movement. Among the list of nominees, two standout figures from the world of karate are stepping forward: Tadissi Martial (Hungary) and Sandra Sanchez (Spain).
🇭🇺 Tadissi Martial: A Global Perspective, A Commitment to Serve
Hungarian karateka Tadissi Martial has officially announced his candidacy for the IWGA Athletes’ Committee, marking a new chapter in his lifelong journey through sport.
With 25 years of experience in the world sport community, Tadissi believes the time has come to give back by representing the voice of athletes worldwide. Born in Budapest with Congolese roots through his father, Tadissi embodies a rich multicultural heritage and an international mindset.
Beyond the dojo, his professional journey is equally impressive. He is currently enrolled in the Hungarian Diplomatic Training Program run by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade. A former military athlete with the Hungarian Defence Forces, Tadissi also gained experience through prestigious international programs like the UN Shadowing Programme and the Hungarian Olympic Committee’s Youth Leader Programme.
He holds a Master’s in Public Administration (European and International Administration) and a Bachelor’s in International Administration, along with two years of sport coaching education. Fluent in English and French, with basic Spanish skills, he aims to be a clear, articulate, and committed advocate for athletes at all levels.
🇪🇸 Sandra Sanchez: Champion of the Tatami and of Athlete Rights
Already serving as the President of the IWGA Athletes’ Committee, Sandra Sanchez—Olympic gold medalist in karate at Tokyo 2020 and one of the most decorated athletes in the sport’s history—seeks re-election to continue her mission of athlete advocacy.
During her tenure, Sandra has worked to give athletes a stronger voice, improved conditions, and enhanced visibility within The World Games. She leads initiatives like “Mother in Elite Sport”, helping elite athletes manage their sports careers alongside family responsibilities.
Her vision is clear: to build a more inclusive, athlete-focused environment, where representation, equality, and career development are not just goals, but realities. If re-elected, Sandra pledges to continue creating a future where athletes are respected, supported, and heard—during their careers and beyond.
🗳️ Your Vote, Your Voice
If you are a qualified athlete for the upcoming World Games in Chengdu (2025), you will have the right to vote for your Athletes’ Committee representatives from August 3 to August 16, 2025.
This election is more than symbolic—it is an opportunity to shape the future of athlete representation within the World Games. Whether through Tadissi’s diplomatic and multicultural perspective or Sandra’s proven leadership and advocacy, the karate community is proudly stepping up to lead.
🔗 Learn more about the candidates: https://www.theworldgames.org/ac-candidates
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