The World Karate Federation (WKF) has officially released an updated version of its General Regulations for Coaches, introducing several important changes aimed at clarifying roles, preventing conflicts of interest, and streamlining participation across events. The adjustments, outlined in Point 9 – General Specifications, will come into effect immediately and impact athletes, referees, coaches, and national federation officials.
1. Separation of Roles Between Coaches and Referees
One of the most significant modifications is the clear separation between coaching and refereeing within the same calendar year.
- Coaches may now attend new or updated referee courses to obtain or renew their referee license, but they cannot serve as both a coach and a referee in official WKF or Continental events during the same year.
- Likewise, referees are allowed to attend coach accreditation briefings and certification exams but may not perform as both a coach and a referee in the same competitive season.
This change is intended to avoid conflicts of interest and ensure that each role can be carried out with full focus and impartiality.
2. Restrictions on National Federation Presidents
A new rule specifically targets the leadership of national federations: Presidents are no longer allowed to register or act as coaches in any WKF or Continental Federation event. This reinforces professional boundaries and ensures that governance roles remain separate from technical or tactical team responsibilities.
3. Flexibility for Athlete-Coaches – With Limits
Athletes holding a valid WKF Coach License face new restrictions:
- They may only register and perform as either an athlete or a coach in a single WKF event — not both simultaneously.
- Switching from athlete to coach (or vice versa) is permitted within the same calendar year, provided it complies with Kumite Competition Rules and nationality requirements.
This change is expected to help athletes maintain clarity in their competitive and leadership commitments.
4. Accreditation and Certification Options
The WKF has also introduced flexibility in how accreditation can be obtained:
- Athletes may attend the Accredited Coach briefing either online or onsite.
- Certification exams will follow the same hybrid model, in line with the General Regulations for Coaches.
5. Personal Collection of Coach Cards
Finally, in a logistical update (Point 6 of the regulations), all Coach Accreditation Cards must be collected in personduring registration sessions. This measure will ensure proper identification and reduce administrative complications.
Impact on the Karate Community
These updates represent a significant step toward improving role clarity, professional standards, and event integritywithin WKF competitions. By clearly defining who can perform which roles — and when — the federation is seeking to reduce potential conflicts, enhance fairness, and support the ongoing professionalization of karate on the global stage.
The changes will likely require national federations, athletes, and officials to plan their competitive seasons more strategically, especially those who traditionally held dual roles.