Tashkent – The national Ashihara Karate team of Afghanistan was unable to participate in the 2026 Asian Championship after failing to obtain visas from Uzbekistan.
Kabul 24: Officials from the Afghanistan Ashihara Karate Federation announced that the Uzbek authorities’ refusal to issue visas prevented the team from competing in one of the most important karate events in Asia.
According to the original plan, a delegation of ten athletes along with coaches, team officials, and the head of the delegation was scheduled to take part in both kata (forms) and kumite (fighting) categories at the championship.
This setback occurred despite full preparations having been completed. In recent weeks, the national team members had undergone intensive training under quarantine conditions at the Kabul Department of Sports facilities, showing high levels of readiness and dedication.
The Asian Championship in Ashihara Karate officially began on Saturday, April 25, 2026, in Tashkent, Uzbekistan. While athletes from various Asian countries gathered to compete, the Afghan representatives were forced to stay home due to this administrative obstacle.
Federation officials expressed deep regret over the situation and stated that they have formally requested a thorough investigation into the visa denial.
They have called on relevant international bodies, including the World Ashihara Karate Organization, as well as the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan, to follow up on the matter and clarify the reasons behind the decision.
Ashihara Karate, a modern full-contact style originating from Japan, has been growing in popularity in Afghanistan in recent years.
The national team had high hopes of showcasing their skills and gaining valuable international experience at this continental event.
The absence of the Afghan team not only deprives the athletes of a chance to compete at a high level but also highlights ongoing challenges faced by Afghan sports delegations in securing timely visas for international competitions.
Federation leaders emphasized their commitment to continue developing the sport domestically and expressed hope that such issues will be resolved in the future to allow Afghan athletes to represent their country on the Asian stage without unnecessary barriers.
Sports analysts believe that stronger diplomatic and sports cooperation between Afghanistan and neighboring countries could help prevent similar problems moving forward.
