Ararat Cup strengthens Armenia’s role and brings together ITKF world leaders ahead of the World Championship

The ITKF Global Technical Seminar and the 6th International Ararat Cup brought together around 400 participants through competition and technical training, further establishing Yerevan as one of the leading centres for Traditional Karate development and international cooperation within the ITKF.

By Paulo Pinto | Global Sports
Curitiba 7 Brazil, July 29, 2026

The ITKF Global Technical Seminar and the 6th International Ararat Cup confirmed Armenia’s growing prominence on the world stage of Traditional Karate. Organised by the Armenian Traditional Karate-Do Federation and held at the Dynamo Sports Complex in Yerevan, the Armenian capital, the two events brought together approximately 300 competitors and around 100 participants in the Technical Seminar. They also welcomed leading officials from ITKF Global at a strategically important moment for the organisation, only a few months before the 23rd ITKF Traditional Karate World Championship, scheduled for October in Cairo, Egypt.

A traditional Armenian folk dance performance marked the opening ceremony, celebrating the culture and national identity of the host country © Valer Balasanyan / FAKT

The presence of ITKF Global Chairman Shihan Gilberto Gaertner (Brazil), ITKF Europe Chairman Roman Pavlović (Slovenia), and ITKF Africa Chairman Ramy El Mekawy (Egypt) gave the gathering a significance that extended well beyond the sporting arena. More than simply hosting an international competition, Armenia established itself as an important meeting point for the leaders responsible for guiding and developing Traditional Karate worldwide. The attendance of members of the diplomatic corps further reinforced the institutional character of the event and highlighted the atmosphere of international cooperation leading into the 23rd ITKF World Championship, which will take place in Egypt this October.

ITKF Africa Chairman Ramy El Mekawy, ITKF Chairman Gilberto Gaertner, and ITKF Europe Chairman Roman Petrov alongside representatives of Armenian culture wearing the traditional Taraz costume © Valer Balasanyan / FAKT

Organised by the Armenian Traditional Karate Federation, the event reaffirmed the country’s ability to stage high-level competitions and technical activities while strengthening its position within the international ITKF community. The 2026 edition also demonstrated the remarkable evolution of the Ararat Cup, which, over the past six years, has grown from an international tournament into an important platform for technical exchange, institutional cooperation and stronger relationships among organisations affiliated with the International Traditional Karate Federation.

Performance featuring the kanon, a traditional Armenian string instrument, during the opening ceremony © Valer Balasanyan / FAKT

Among the distinguished guests attending the event were Suren Matevosyan, President of the Armenian Traditional Karate-Do Federation; Amal Afifi, Ambassador of Egypt to Armenia; George Sharvashidze, Ambassador of Georgia to Armenia; Gilberto Gaertner, Chairman of ITKF Global; Roman Pavlovich, Chairman of ITKF Europe; Ramy El Mekawy, Chairman of ITKF Africa; Shuhratjon Kushmuratov, President of the Uzbekistan Traditional Karate Federation; Mohamed Fawzy, Technical Director of the Egyptian National Team; and Aram Arustamyan, Board Member of the Armenian Traditional Karate-Do Federation.

Distinguished guests and officials © Valer Balasanyan / FAKT

In recognition of their contribution to the development of Traditional Karate, the Armenian Traditional Karate-Do Federation presented the distinguished guests and international leaders with commemorative medals of the 6th International Ararat Cup. As a gesture of friendship and cooperation between national organisations, the Egyptian Traditional Karate Federation also presented institutional gifts to the participants, symbolising the growing relationship between the two countries ahead of the 23rd ITKF Traditional Karate World Championship, which will be held in Cairo.

A performance featuring the kanon, a traditional Armenian string instrument, formed part of the opening ceremony of the ITKF Global Technical Seminar and the 6th International Ararat Cup © Valer Balasanyan / FAKT

Exclusive Interview | Suren Matevosyan 

In an exclusive interview with Budô Magazine, Suren Matevosyan, President of the Armenian Traditional Karate Federation, reviews the 6th International Ararat Cup and the ITKF Global Technical Seminar, analyses the results achieved, highlights the importance of the presence of the organisation’s leading international officials, and shares his vision of the growth of Traditional Karate in Armenia and the legacy the event leaves for the international community.

Karate practitioners lined up during the opening ceremony of the 6th International Ararat Cup © Valer Balasanyan / FAKT

HOW DO YOU ASSESS THE ORGANISATION AND DELIVERY OF THE 6TH INTERNATIONAL ARARAT CUP AND THE ITKF GLOBAL TECHNICAL SEMINAR?

The ITKF Global Technical Seminar and the 6th International Ararat Cup were successfully organised and conducted in Armenia, following a very high technical and organisational standard. Athletes from Yerevan and different regions of the country took part in the event. In order to preserve the highest possible technical standard of the competition, each coach selected only two athletes from each age and grade category to represent their respective clubs.

Suren Matevosyan, President of the Armenian Traditional Karate-Do Federation, delivering his opening address © Valer Balasanyan / FAKT

The Technical Seminar was intensive and comprehensive, combining both theoretical and practical activities. Reserved exclusively for practitioners holding the rank of 1st kyu (brown belt) and black belts, aged 14 years and older, the programme provided an outstanding opportunity for more experienced karate practitioners to deepen their technical knowledge and broaden their understanding of the principles of Traditional Karate.

Gilberto Gaertner, Chairman of ITKF Global, addressing the opening ceremony © Valer Balasanyan / FAKT

HOW IMPORTANT WAS THIS EVENT FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF TRADITIONAL KARATE IN ARMENIA AND ON THE INTERNATIONAL STAGE? 

It is a great honour for us to organise the International Ararat Cup for the sixth consecutive year. With each edition, we witness growing international interest in the event, something that deeply motivates and encourages us.

Suren Matevosyan and Ramy El Mekawy honour Ambassador Amal Afifi during the opening ceremony © Valer Balasanyan / FAKT

Although Armenia is a small country, it continues to gain increasing international recognition through Traditional Karate. This championship makes a significant contribution to the development of our athletes, broadens their international experience, strengthens the bonds of friendship among nations, and raises the technical standard of Karate in our country. We are proud to continuously develop highly qualified athletes who are well prepared to compete on the international stage.

Amal Afifi, Ramy El Mekawy, and Mohamed Fawzy display the commemorative medals presented by the Armenian Traditional Karate-Do Federation © Valer Balasanyan / FAKT

HOW MANY COUNTRIES PARTICIPATED IN THE EVENT?

Unfortunately, due to the current international political situation and the many challenges being faced around the world, the number of participants was lower than in previous editions.

Historic photograph featuring Shuhratjon Kushmuratov, Mohamed Fawzy, Amal Afifi, Shihan Gilberto Gaertner, Ramy El Mekawy, Andrei Pavlovski, and Suren Matevosyan © Valer Balasanyan / FAKT

This year we welcomed delegations from Egypt, Uzbekistan, and also a club from China, founded by an Armenian athlete who is currently developing Traditional Karate in that country. Despite the reduced number of participating nations, the international spirit that characterises the Ararat Cup remained strong throughout the event.

Gilberto Gaertner with two representatives of Armenian culture during the opening ceremony © Valer Balasanyan / FAKT

HOW MANY ATHLETES TOOK PART IN THE COMPETITION AND THE TECHNICAL SEMINAR?

The 6th International Ararat Cup brought together approximately 300 athletes, while the ITKF Global Technical Seminar welcomed around 100 participants, bringing together practitioners and instructors in an intensive programme dedicated to technical improvement. Copa Ararat 2 reforça protagonismo da Armênia e reúne lideranças mundiais da ITKF às vésperas do Campeonato Mundial.

Gilberto Gaertner conducting training during the ITKF Global Technical Seminar © Valer Balasanyan / FAKT

WHICH INSTITUTIONS SUPPORTED THE ORGANISATION OF THE EVENT?

Our federation does not receive financial support from any government institution or external organisation. Every initiative we undertake, including this international championship and the Technical Seminar, is carried out exclusively through the dedication, commitment and independent work of our federation and its affiliated members.

Gilberto Gaertner conducting training for brown belts and black belts © Valer Balasanyan / FAKT

HOW DO YOU AND THE BOARD OF THE ARMENIAN TRADITIONAL KARATE FEDERATION ASSESS THE IMPORTANCE OF THE PARTICIPATION OF ITKF GLOBAL’S LEADING INTERNATIONAL OFFICIALS?

We are extremely proud and honoured that these distinguished international leaders chose to be with us. What makes their visit even more meaningful is the fact that they expressed their desire to attend even before receiving our official invitation.

Suren Matevosyan taking part in the ITKF Global Technical Seminar © Valer Balasanyan / FAKT

The presence of these leaders represents clear recognition of Armenia’s increasingly important role within the international Traditional Karate community. It motivates our athletes, inspires our coaches, and confirms that the work we are carrying out is recognised and valued at the highest international level.

Gilberto Gaertner instructing participants during the ITKF Global Technical Seminar © Valer Balasanyan / FAKT

WHO CONDUCTED THE TECHNICAL SEMINAR?

The Technical Seminar was conducted by Shihan Gilberto Gaertner, the Brazilian sensei who serves as Chairman of ITKF Global. His extensive experience, profound technical knowledge, and teaching methodology made the seminar extremely valuable for all participants.

Instructors and black belts participating in the ITKF Global Technical Seminar © Valer Balasanyan / FAKT

WHAT WERE THE MAIN TOPICS COVERED DURING THE TECHNICAL SEMINAR?

The seminar focused on the general methodology of Traditional Karate, covering technical standards, teaching principles, and preparation for international competitions. Participants attended both practical and theoretical sessions, deepening their understanding of the philosophy and technical concepts of Traditional Karate.

Gilberto Gaertner with Tigran Abrahamyan, university lecturer in China © Valer Balasanyan / FAKT

The seminar also included interactive discussions and a question-and-answer session with Shihan Gilberto Gaertner, providing participants with the opportunity to exchange experiences and clarify important technical issues.

Gilberto Gaertner, Ramy El Mekawy, Mohamed Fawzy, and Roman Petkovic meeting to finalise preparations for the 23rd ITKF World Championship © Valer Balasanyan / FAKT

HOW DO YOU ASSESS THE TECHNICAL STANDARD DEMONSTRATED BY THE ATHLETES?

The athletes displayed an excellent technical standard. Competitors from as young as six years of age demonstrated a high level of preparation, discipline, and technical quality. Only specially selected athletes from Armenia were eligible to compete, as our objective is to maintain the highest possible competitive standard. Their performances reflected the intensive work carried out by both the athletes and their coaches.

Gilberto Gaertner and Suren Matevosyan share a moment of fellowship on the shores of Lake Sevan, one of Armenia’s most iconic landmarks © Valer Balasanyan / FAKT

Overall Medal Standings

🥇 Armenia
🥈 Egypt
🥉 Uzbekistan

THE ARARAT CUP WAS CREATED AS AN INTERNATIONAL GATHERING AND HAS GRADUALLY ESTABLISHED ARMENIA AS AN IMPORTANT HUB OF ITKF GLOBAL. WHAT LEGACY DOES THE 2026 EDITION LEAVE FOR TRADITIONAL KARATE?

The 2026 edition further strengthened Armenia’s position as an important centre of Traditional Karate within the ITKF Global family.

Over the past six years, the International Ararat Cup has evolved from an international tournament into a highly respected annual event, bringing together athletes, instructors, and officials from different countries. More than a competition, it has become a place for learning, friendship, cultural exchange, and professional development.

The legacy of this edition lies in the expansion of international cooperation, the continuous improvement of technical standards, and the growing recognition of Armenia as a reliable host for major international Traditional Karate events.

WHAT MESSAGE WOULD YOU LIKE TO SHARE WITH THE INTERNATIONAL TRADITIONAL KARATE COMMUNITY FOLLOWING THIS IMPORTANT EVENT?

First of all, I would like to express my sincere gratitude to everyone who stood by us and supported this event from the earliest stages of preparation until its successful conclusion.

We hope that next year we will be able to organise an even larger and stronger event, welcoming an even greater number of countries, athletes, and friends to Armenia. Our goal is to continue strengthening the bonds that unite the international Traditional Karate family while creating new opportunities for learning, competition, and friendship.

We also sincerely hope that, in the near future, Armenia will have the opportunity to host even larger and higher-level international Traditional Karate championships.

On behalf of our federation, I would like to thank the entire ITKF family for its trust, friendship, and continued support. It will be a great pleasure to welcome everyone back to Armenia once again.

International Leaders Highlight the Legacy of the Ararat Cup

Even during a period marked by geopolitical instability in the Middle East and an international scenario that limited the participation of a larger number of foreign delegations, Armenia successfully organised the ITKF Global Technical Seminar and the 6th International Ararat Cup.

The organisers expect that, once the international political situation stabilises, the next edition will bring together an even greater number of countries and athletes, further strengthening Armenia’s position as one of the world’s leading centres for Traditional Karate.

Impressions of the success of the 6th International Ararat Cup were shared by leading ITKF officials and participants in the ITKF Global Technical Seminar, all of whom highlighted not only the outstanding technical standard of the activities, but also Armenia’s growing role as an international reference in the development of Traditional Karate. Copa Ararat

Roman Pavlović: “Armenia has become an important bridge between Asia and Europe within the ITKF”

ITKF Europe Chairman Roman Pavlović stated that the Ararat Cup has established itself as a true gathering of the principles and values upheld by the ITKF. According to the European leader, the technical quality of the seminar, the high standard of the competition, and the dedication of the organisers confirmed Armenia’s importance within the international Traditional Karate community.

“The 6th Ararat Traditional Karate Cup, held in Yerevan, was a true festival of the spirit and values promoted by the ITKF. Organisers, referees, coaches, competitors, and spectators demonstrated a profound understanding of the principles of Traditional Karate throughout the three days of activities. The seminar was conducted at an exceptionally high level and highlighted the importance of strong technical foundations for continuous development. The competition featured karate practitioners of outstanding quality, especially among the younger generations, demonstrating a very promising future for Traditional Karate. The Armenian Traditional Karate Federation has once again proven itself to be an important bridge between Asia and Europe within the ITKF and an organisation of which we can all be proud.”

Tigran Abrahamyan: “The seminar deepened both my technical and philosophical understanding”

Another remarkable testimony came from Armenian karate practitioner Tigran Abrahamyan, who is currently studying in China and teaches Traditional Karate at Zhejiang University. For him, the seminar represented a unique opportunity for both technical and philosophical development.

“The seminar was extremely informative and enriching. I learned a great deal about the Shuto-Waza, Keri-Waza, and Uchi-Waza kata, as well as the use of diaphragmatic breathing and meditation. The presentations also broadened my understanding of the history, philosophy, and etiquette of Traditional Karate, while reinforcing the true meaning of competition, continuous training, and the application of Budō principles in our lives as karate practitioners.” Copa Ararat 2 reforça protagonismo da Armênia e reúne lideranças mundiais da ITKF às vésperas do Campeonato Mundial.docxDOCX

Ramy El Mekawy: “The success of the Ararat Cup inspires the Cairo World Championship”

The host of the 23rd ITKF Traditional Karate World Championship, to be held this October in Cairo, Ramy El Mekawy, Chairman of ITKF Africa, stated that the Ararat Cup strengthened the unity of the organisation and demonstrated the high technical level achieved by the international Traditional Karate community.

According to the Egyptian leader, the success of the Armenian event further raises expectations for the World Championship and reinforces the spirit of cooperation among ITKF member organisations.

“Armenia organised an event of the highest standard, both in terms of organisation and the technical quality demonstrated throughout the seminar and the competition. The Ararat Cup once again showcased the strength of the ITKF family and the commitment of its members to preserving the values of Traditional Karate. We now turn our attention to the Cairo World Championship, where we look forward to welcoming the international ITKF community with the same spirit of friendship, respect, and excellence that we experienced in Armenia. I am certain that the success achieved in Yerevan will serve as a great inspiration for the World Championship that we will host in Egypt.” Copa Ararat 2 reforça protagonismo da Armênia e reúne lideranças mundiais da ITKF às vésperas do Campeonato Mundial.docxDOCX

Shihan Gilberto Gaertner: “Traditional Karate in Armenia is developed with seriousness and responsibility”

Concluding the evaluations, ITKF Global Chairman Gilberto Gaertner highlighted the intensity of the training sessions, the technical quality of the seminar, and the excellent standard displayed during the competition. He also emphasised that the gathering enabled important progress in the final preparations for the World Championship, which will take place this October in Egypt.

“The participation of the instructors and practitioners from Armenia and Egypt was highly significant. The seminar was intensive, and everyone trained with great dedication. We worked on the fundamentals and methodology of ITKF Traditional Karate, including kata, self-defence through the waza, timing and distancing drills, as well as the historical, biomechanical, and neurophysiological aspects of the discipline. The Ararat Cup allowed me to see Traditional Karate in its purest form: sound technique, outstanding athletes, impeccable organisation, and, above all, remarkable discipline and etiquette. I leave extremely satisfied to see that, in Armenia, ITKF Traditional Karate is being developed with seriousness and responsibility.

Another extremely important aspect was the meetings held between the Egyptian officials, the Chairman of ITKF Europe, and the leadership of ITKF Global to finalise the organisational details of the World Championship, which will be held this October in Egypt.”