Korfball teams Qualified for The World Games 2025, Chengdu, China

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The International Korfball Federation (IKF) can confirm that the following teams have qualified for The World Games 2025, which will be held in Chengdu, People’s Republic of China from August 7th to August 17th, 2025. The teams qualified following the latest round of matches at the IKF World Korfball Championship 2023 held in Taipei City.

  • Belgium
  • Chinese Taipei
  • Czech Republic
  • Germany
  • Netherlands
  • Portugal
  • Suriname

Beach Korfball will also be played at The World Games 2025 for the first time in addition to the main Korfball event. Qualification for the TWG 2025 Beach Korfball will be announced following the completion of the IKF World Beach Korfball Championship that takes place in Pattaya (THA) in 2024 .

The IKF World Korfball Championship 2023 was used as the only qualification event for The World Games 2025. There are eight qualification places available for TWG 2025. The framework aimed at having four continents representing Korfball at the TWG 2025 out of the five Continents represented in the IKF WKC 2023 – Africa, Americas, Asia, Europe, Oceania.  

To make this happen, participants from four continents should finish in the top-11 at the IKF WKC 2023. Therefore, the final ranking at the IKF WKC 2023 decided which teams qualified for TWG 2025.  The final qualification place will be decided by the IKF Council before December 2024 taking the interest of quality of the competition, global representation, and marketing impact into account.

For more information on The World Games 2025, please visit The World Games 2025, Chengdu (CHN) | IWGA. Search #TWG2025 and #RoadtoChengdu for the latest updates on social media.

Congratulations to the teams that have qualified!
 

 The World Games 

The World Games is a multi-sport event staged every four years by the International World Games Association, organised with the support of the International Olympic Committee. The World Games 2022 was held in Birmingham, Alabama, USA, 7-17 July 2022. 3,600 athletes from 34 sports and 100 countries took part in the Games. The 12th edition of The World Games will be held in Chengdu, CHN, 7-17 August 2025. 

More information:

#TWG2025 ► The World Games 2025 in Chengdu (TWG website – official info)

Photo: Krit Suttipithuk

 

Qualification secured for the IKF European Korfball Championships 2024

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The International Korfball Federation (IKF) is now able to confirm the teams that have qualified for next year’s IKF European Korfball Championships that will take place in October 2024.

The main qualification event for the IKF European Korfball Championships 2024 is based on the teams’ performances at the IKF World Korfball Championship 2023 currently being played in Taipei City.

The 12 European teams competing at the World Championship will directly qualify for the European Championships, the top 8 teams will participate in the A- Division and the other 4 teams will take part in the B- Division, with both events planned for October 2024.

Switzerland qualified through the IKF EU Korfball Championship Qualifier-B in 2022. The remaining three qualification places for the IKF European Korfball Championship B-Division will be contested between Armenia, France, Scotland, Serbia and Wales at the IKF EKC Round 1 that will take place in Saint-Jean-Bonnefonds, France, between 24-26 November 2023.

IKF European Korfball Championship A-Division | October 2024

  • Belgium
  • Catalonia
  • Czech Republic
  • England
  • Germany
  • Hungary
  • Netherlands
  • Portugal

IKF European Korfball Championship B-Division | Türkiye | Kemer| 14-19 October

  • Ireland
  • Poland
  • Slovakia
  • Switzerland
  • Türkiye
  • Armenia/ France/ Scotland/ Serbia/ Wales at the IKF EKC Round 1

Photo: Marco Spelten

Referees appointed for the IKF World Korfball Championship final

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The International Korfball Federation (IKF) has appointed Steve JONES from Wales and Kris MEEUS from Belgium as the referees for the final match of the IKF World Korfball Championship between Chinese Taipei and Netherlands. The gold medal match will take place on 29 October 2023 starting at 2.45pm  

Megan FREDERICKSON (AUS) and Pradeep DAHIYA (IND) have both been appointed as assistant/reserve referees. 

Jones and Meeus impressed throughout the championship with their individual performances and during the Suriname – Portugal where they worked together as a duo.  

Steve Jones who referees in the England Korfball League took charge of the last World Championship final held in Durban, South Africa in 2019, and the 2011 final in Shaoxing, China. 

Jones recently took charge of several other major international finals including most recently the IKF Champions League final in February 2023 that took place in Delft, Netherlands which featured Korfbal League sides Fortuna/Delta Logistiek and PKC/Vertom . Jones’ experience makes him an ideal choice for this high-profile match where for the first time in history a team from outside of Europe will feature. 

Kris Meeus was appointed to the IKF referee list in 2014 and referees in the Belgium NDN Topleague took charge of the final in 2023 between Borgerhout/GW and Boeckenberg. 

The final match of the IKF World Korfball Championship is expected to be a thrilling contest with Chinese Taipei having the home court advantage and the vocal support of the city of Taipei inside the Taipei Gymnasium.  

The Netherlands, who have won the championship ten times, will be looking to add another title to their impressive record. Chinese Taipei, on the other hand, will be hoping to win their first-ever championship title. 

HOW TO WATCH ONLINE 

Fans can watch matches on the final day live onto the IKF YouTube channel, they will also be available to watch live and for free at Olympics.com or on the Olympics app. The Olympic Channel is the International Olympic Committee (IOC)’s digital destination. 

Coverage will start 15 minutes before the start of the match with a pre-match studio programme which will include interviews, analysis and discussion. You don’t want to miss it! 

Quick access to updated match reports, results, stats, photos & socials ► korfball.sport/wkc2023 

Photo: Marco Spelten

Jan Fransoo awarded Honorary Life President after 20-year term as IKF president

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Jan Fransoo today concluded an extraordinary 20-year term as International Korfball Federation (IKF) President. Fransoo has been succeeded by Gabi Kool who was voted in as the new President of the International Korfball Federation during the General Meeting 2023.

At the IKF General Meeting held on Saturday, 28 October in Taipei City, Jan received multiple standing ovations as well as a moving tribute by IKF CEO and General Secretary, Joana Faria.

The IKF General Meeting awarded Jan Fransoo with the Honorary Life President award for his outstanding contributions to the sport.

Jan Fransoo and Joana Faria (IKF General Secretary and CEO)

Joana said to the General Meeting and IKF officials that had gathered in the conference hall: “It is an honour to stand before you today and pay tribute to Jan Fransoo, the President of the International Korfball Federation, for his twenty years of service and unwavering commitment to the sport of korfball.

“Under his leadership, the sport has grown and flourished to become a truly global organisation. Today, we gather not only to acknowledge his outstanding contributions to our beloved sport but also to celebrate his leadership, vision, and unwavering dedication to the IKF

“The growth of continents outside of Europe, the professional presentation of our sport and the increased exposure through different media channels has been a big factor in this global growth of our sport.

“But Jan’s impact goes beyond the numbers and statistics. It is in the countless lives he has touched, the inspiration he has provided, and the sense of belonging he has nurtured. He has not just been a President; he has been a mentor, a role model, and a friend to many within the korfball community.

“Over the past two decades, Jan has demonstrated an exceptional ability to unite people from all corners of the globe under the banner of korfball. His passion for the growth of our sport has paved the way for countless countries to play korfball both at grass roots, and international level. His dedication to promoting diversity and inclusion has made korfball a sport that welcomes people of all backgrounds, cultures, and abilities. Jan’s commitment to fostering a sense of belonging in our korfball community is truly commendable.

“Under Jan’s guidance, the IKF has successfully hosted increasingly bigger and more professional tournaments such as World Championships and World Games events, showcasing our sport on the world stage in a way that korfball had previously never been seen. His determination to push the boundaries of the sport has resulted in increased recognition and respect for korfball across a variety of international sporting circles.

“Jan has been actively involved in promoting korfball development programs, supporting new technology initiatives, and advocating for gender equity within the sport. His commitment to equality has set a shining example for many others to follow. By promoting mixed-gender teams and equal opportunities for athletes all over the world, Jan has made the sport more inclusive and inspiring for us all.

“Thank you for your dedication, your passion, and your unwavering commitment to the sport of korfball.”

Mr. Shih-Chung, Director of Sports Administration, Ministry of Education also attended the meeting and thanked Jan for his years of dedicated service to the sport, and presented a First Class Medal for Contributions to the Field of Education. Jan was also presented with an Award Certificate and a special gift for his outstanding contribution to developing and expanding the international sport exchanges of Chinese Taipei.

Jan Fransoo, Mr. Shih-Chung and Gabi Kool

Both the Royal Dutch Korfball Association (KNKV) and the Royal Belgian Korfball Federation (KBKB) awarded Jan Fransoo an Honorary Membership.

Netherlands captain, Daan Preuninger presented a gift to Jan Fransoo on behalf of the KNKV and all athletes both past and present.

Fransoo continues to serve on the International World Games Association Executive (IWGA) Committee. He is serving his second term as IWGA ExCo Member after being reelected in 2023.

His contributions to the sport of korfball are immense and he will be remembered for his dedication and service to the sport. Thank you, Jan.,

Photos: Krit Suttipithuk

Chinese Taipei Makes History at the IKF World Korfball Championships 2023

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Chinese Taipei has made history by beating Belgium in the semifinals of the IKF World Korfball Championships 2023. The number 3 ranked team in the world has now set up a final against Netherlands, who won earlier today.

The match between Chinese Taipei and Belgium was intense, with both teams putting up a great fight. However, Chinese Taipei emerged victorious with a score of 21-19. This is the first time in the history of the World Championship that a team from outside of Europe has reached the final.

Chinese Taipei will now face Netherlands in the final of the IKF World Korfball Championships 2023 on Sunday. Netherlands won their semifinal match against Czech Republic 13-41. The arena at Taipei Gymnasium was almost at capacity for the semi-final on Friday evening, we are expecting the final on Sunday to be an exciting match, with both teams giving it their all.

The Netherlands are seeking a record-breaking 11th world championship title. The only other time Chinese Taipei and Netherlands have met in a IKF final was in Wroclaw, Poland for the Final of The World Games 2017.

The IKF World Korfball Championships 2023 has been an exciting event so far, with athletes from 24 teams competing for the prestigious title of world champion. The event is being held in Taipei City, Taiwan, from 20 to 29 October. The championship is the largest Korfball World Championships in history, with teams from five continents competing.

The IKF World Korfball Championship 2023 is a qualifying event for The World Games 2025 in Chengdu.

Sunday, 29 October 2023

  • 12:45 (Taipei) | 05:45 (Amsterdam) – Bronze medal match – Czech Republic – Belgium
  • 14:45 (Taipei) | 07:45 (Amsterdam) – FINAL – Chinese Taipei – Netherlands

HOW TO WATCH ONLINE

Fans can watch matches on the final day live onto the IKF YouTube channel, they will also be available to watch live and for free at Olympics.com or on the Olympics app. The Olympic Channel is the International Olympic Committee (IOC)’s digital destination.

Coverage will start 15 minutes before the start of the match with a pre-match studio programme which will include interviews, analysis and discussion. You don’t want to miss it!

Quick access to updated match reports, results, stats, photos & socials ► korfball.sport/wkc2023

Photo: Marco Spelten / Actiefotografie

IKF Europe milestone achieved with the formation of a new Executive Committee

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An installation meeting for a new IKF Europe Executive Committee was held in Taipei prior to the General Assembly of the International Korfball Federation (IKF). The formation of this committee is a significant milestone for European korfball, as there has been no European voice in the IKF council for some time.  

Previous attempts to create a European confederation ultimately proved unsustainable. Now, a different approach has been followed with the composition of an IKF European task force that has been working on the preparation of a new ExCO for the past 2 years. Members of Belgium, the Netherlands, Germany, England and Poland formed this task force. 

The working group laid the foundation for a mission statement and determined the objectives for IKF Europe and the associated critical success factors. The mission statement is to bring together all European federations with a focus on further development of the sport in all respects and cooperation across national borders through the exchange of knowledge and expertise.  

Yves Daelmans (Belgium) was elected president of IKF Europe and said, “We have been able to put together a driven ExCo team for this purpose, with representation from A to D countries and with the necessary geographical spread. As A countries, the Netherlands and Belgium take their responsibility in this new ExCo.  

“It soon became apparent that there was a need for a body to connect the European countries and take a position within IKF, because the number of topics that were presented so far is already considerable.” Yves Daelmans will combine this extra role with his position of director of international relations within the Belgian federation. 

The IKF Europe ExCo consists of the following people: 

President: Yves Daelmans (Belgium). Members: Carles Albà (Catalonia), Clive Dobbin (England), Anne Harrow (Scotland), Henry van Meerten (Netherlands) and Iwona Zak (Poland) 

Semi-Finals set for IKF World Korfball Championship 2023

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The quarter-finals of the IKF World Korfball Championship have come to an end, and we now know which teams will be competing in the semi-finals. The semi-finals will be held on Friday, 27th October, in Taipei City. The first semi-final match will start at 5:30 PM, followed by the second match at 7:15 PM. 

Here are the results from the quarter-finals: 

Czech Republic defeated Germany with a score of 19-20. Belgium beat Portugal with a score of 26-18. Netherlands defeated England with a score of 36-2. Chinese Taipei won against Suriname with a score of 19-15. 

This means the semi-final matches on Friday will be played between: 

  • Czech Republic vs. Netherlands (17:30 Taipei | 10:30 London | 11:30 Amsterdam / Prague) 
  • Chinese Taipei vs. Belgium (19:15 Taipei | 12:15 London | 13:15 Antwerp) 

Limited tickets are available for free on a first-come, first-served basis for korfball fans wishing to attend in person. If you’re interested in attending, please order your tickets from the official tournament website. 

The final will be played on Sunday, October 29th.  

IKF WORLD KORFBALL CHAMPIONSHIP 2023  

The IKF World Korfball Championship 2023 takes place in Taipei City from 20 to 29 October. The tournament features 24 teams from five continents, competing for the prestigious title of world champion. The matches will be held at the Taipei Gymnasium, a venue with excellent facilities for spectators and players.  

The IKF World Korfball Championship 2023 is a qualifying event for The World Games 2025 in Chengdu.  

HOW TO WATCH ONLINE  

Fans can watch matches on the final day live onto the IKF YouTube channel, they will also be available to watch live and for free at Olympics.com or on the Olympics app. The Olympic Channel is the International Olympic Committee (IOC)’s digital destination.   

Coverage will start 15 minutes before the start of the match with a pre-match studio programme which will include interviews, analysis and discussion. You don’t want to miss it! 

Quick access to updated match reports, results, stats, photos & socials ► korfball.sport/wkc2023 

Photo: Marco Spelten / Actiefotografie

IKF World Korfball Championship 2023 enters later stages

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It’s Day 7 of the 12th IKF World Korfball Championship, the largest world championships ever held, taking place in Taipei City. We are now past the half-way point in the championship with 48 matches completed and 34 matches remaining.   

A total of 1,637 goals have been scored so far, which is an average of over 34 each match.  As we now enter the later stages of the championship, we are predicting some close and exciting matches. 

Ran FABER (NED) is leading the top goal scorer table with 19 goals scored in his debut world championships, with Chinese Taipei’s Ya-wen LIN (TPE) following just one goal behind on 18.   

Today all 24 teams will play in another 12 matches split over three halls in the impressive Taipei Gymnasium, in Taipei City. 

If you are living in or visiting Taipei City, you can reserve tickets for the matches free of charge from the official tournament website. For korfball fans around the world, the matches will be covered on the IKF YouTube channel. 

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to witness some of the best korfball teams in the world compete for the championship title. Reserve your tickets now and enjoy the matches!  

Tomorrow, its semi-final day, so by the end of Friday we will know who will compete for the gold medal. 

IKF WORLD KORFBALL CHAMPIONSHIP 2023  

The IKF World Korfball Championship 2023 takes place in Taipei City from 20 to 29 October. The tournament will feature 24 teams from five continents, competing for the prestigious title of world champion. The matches will be held at the Taipei Gymnasium, a venue with excellent facilities for spectators and players.  

The IKF World Korfball Championship 2023 is a qualifying event for The World Games 2025 in Chengdu. 

Quick access to updated match reports, results, stats, photos & socials ► korfball.sport/wkc2023 

Photo: Krit Suttipithuk

Kit McConnell welcomes attendees to the World Korfball Congress

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At the World Korfball Congress 2023 which was held Taipei City during the World Korfball Championships, 25 – 26 October 2023, Gabi Kool, Chair of Executive Committee and Executive Vice President for the International Korfball Federation (IKF) read out a letter to attendees received from Kit McConnell, the Sports Director of the International Olympic Committee (IOC).  

Kit said: “The vision outlined in the International Korfball Federations’ “Strategy 2032” is inspiring. Congratulations to the International Korfball Federation for your unwavering dedication to promoting gender equality and fostering inclusivity through sport. This is a shared commitment that resonated with us all. 

“Korfball, at its core, thrives on cooperation, both on and off the pitch. The IOC stands inspired by your commitment to fostering cooperation and your dedication to reaching younger generations. 

“Together, let’s continue to build a brighter and equal future” 

The IKF is committed to working better together with our members and partners, and we are excited about the future opportunities for the sport of korfball. Thank you to all that attended in person in Taipei City and for everyone that connected remotely. Check out our social media channels for photos taken throughout the congress.

Photo: Qi Lim

IKF awards 2024 World Beach Korfball Championship to Pattaya (THA), expands beach competition calendar

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Taipei, 25 October – The International Korfball Federation today announced that the hosting of the 2nd IKF World Beach Korfball Championship has been awarded to Pattaya (Thailand) and will take place from 26-28 April, 2024. Pattaya was a very successful host of one of the World Cups in 2022, and this allows the Korfball Association of Thailand to build on this success as a benchmark for international beach korfball competitions.

Further, following the inclusion of korfball in the program of the next edition of The World Games in Chengdu (CHN), the IKF announced that the international beach korfball calendar will be expanded substantially. In 2024, in addition to the WBKC, two World Cups will be scheduled, one in Europe, likely in August, and a second one in Asia, likely in December. This aligns with the vision of the IKF Council to create a year-round global calendar for beach korfball events.

Further, the IKF announced the qualification regulations for the beach korfball tournament at TWG 2025. The champion of the WBKC will directly qualify for TWG, and TWG host China will have the opportunity to directly qualify at the WBKC, provided they finish in the top-10 of the event. The further 6 or 7 spots (a total of 8 countries/teams can take part in TWG Beach Korfball tournament) will be determined on the newly launched IKF World Beach Korfball Ranking, ensuring both global representation across at least four continents and sufficient competitiveness by ensuring all participants are within the top-12 of the World Ranking as per 31 December 2023.

IKF Beach Korfball Ranking Criterita, click here.

TWG 2025 Qualification Criteria Beach Korfball, click here.