Las Vegas, Nevada –  The National Karate Federations of Canada, Mexico and USA signed a memorandum of understanding to form the North American Karate Federation (NAKF), a regional subset of the Pan American Karate Federation (PKF).  Federation presidents Craig Vokey (CAN), Samantha Deciderio (MEX) and Elisa Au (USA) signed the MOU during the North American Cup, held April 5, 2023, in Las Vegas, Nevada.

The NAKF will aim to increase collaboration in the region, with plans to organize tournaments, training camps and other events to strengthen the national teams. NAKF also plans to extend collaboration with other countries and regional federations, to advance karate in North America.

Also in attendance at the North American Cup was Dr. Jose Garcia Maañon, President of the Pan American Karate Federation and 1st Vice President of the WKF.  Also Mr. Tony Mendez, PKF Treasurer and WKF Executive Committee member.

66 athletes representing Canada, Mexico and USA competed in the 2023 North American Cup.  First place winners in each category qualified directly for the 2023 Pan American Games in Santiago, Chile later this year.  The final qualifying event will be held in May in San Jose, Costa Rica.