The competition is particularly important for the Worldwide Karate Federation (WFK) as the event is serving as the International Olympic Committee (IOC) Evaluation event for the sport's bid to appear at the 2020 Olympic Games.

But the early signs are good for the WKF due to the popularity of the Championships, which are taking place at the magnificent Palais Omnisports de Paris-Bercy in the French capital.

Around 1,000 karatekas from 114 countries are competing in the event while around 300 journalists are accredited and 17 television stations are from the competition.

"Karate is universal and enjoys a great establishment in the five continents," said WKF President Antonio Espinós following the first day of action.

"It is the combat sport with the highest tradition of those that exist."


The 2012 competition is the 21st edition of the event since it began in Tokyo in 1970 while it is the first time it has been held in Paris since the second edition of the event in 1972.

The five-day competition in the French capital will conclude on Sunday (November 25) while the sport is one of seven bidding to make the 2020 Olympic programme alongside climbing, roller sport, squash, wakeboard, wushu and baseball and softball, who are making a joint bid.

The IOC will make a final decision on which sport or sports to include at their Session in Buenos Aires in September 2013.

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