IKF welcomes Beatriz Guita as Executive Assistant and thanks João Pinto

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The International Korfball Federation (IKF) is delighted to announce that Beatriz Guita has joined the IKF team.

Beatriz’s four years of experience at the Portuguese Korfball Federation (FPC) make her a valuable addition to the IKF, bringing both a wealth of knowledge and a deep passion for korfball.

Based in Portugal, Beatriz has been an active member of the korfball community for many years. She has proudly represented Portugal on the national team, including participation in The World Games 2022 in Birmingham, Alabama, and the World Beach Korfball Championships 2024 in Thailand. Her experience competing at the highest level, alongside her deep connection to the korfball community, positions her perfectly to bring fresh perspectives to the IKF.

In her position as Executive Assistant with Strategic Responsibilities, Beatriz will play a key role in supporting the IKF’s objectives and daily operations. The IKF is excited to welcome Beatriz to the team and looks forward to her contributions.

At the same time the IKF acknowledges the departure of João Pinto as a full-time employee and sincerely thanks him for his dedication and contributions. We are delighted that João will remain part of the IKF community as a volunteer, ensuring his expertise and passion continue to benefit us. We wish João every success in his new endeavors. 

We warmly welcome Beatriz Guita to the IKF and look forward to this new chapter together!

Better Together – IKF opens European office in Portugal with new agreement

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The International Korfball Federation (IKF) has strengthened its presence in Europe with a new partnership, opening an office in the historic Palácio Baldaya in Lisbon’s Benfica district.

Last week an agreement was signed with the Junta de Freguesia de Benfica (Lisbon, Portugal), while building upon our existing presence in the country, is a landmark partnership that underscores our commitment to collaboration and opens doors to future joint initiatives, demonstrating our ‘Better Together’ vision.

“We are delighted to partner with the Junta de Freguesia de Benfica” said Joana Faria, IKF CEO and Secretary General. “This agreement provides us with a valuable base to further develop korfball and engage with our members and partners. We are grateful for the warm welcome and support from President Ricardo Marques and the entire Benfica municipality.”

The new IKF office, located within Palácio Baldaya, will serve as a hub for various IKF activities, including administrative operations, development initiatives, and international relations. The office will be housed alongside other organisations, creating a diverse environment for networking, collaboration, and the exchange of expertise.

With the IKF team already working from Palácio Baldaya, this new partnership with the Benfica municipality marks an important step in strengthening our ties and collaboration in Portugal.

Jean Frederickx, IKF Badge of Honour and former IKF vice president, passes away

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It is with profound sadness that the International Korfball Federation (IKF) announces the passing of Jean Frederickx, recipient of the IKF Badge of Honour, at the age of 88. He passed away peacefully on Monday, March 10, 2025.

Mr. Frederickx was a true visionary in the world of korfball, dedicating many years of his life to its growth and refinement. He served as a respected Vice President of the IKF, where his leadership played a pivotal role in shaping the federation’s direction.

His influence extended far beyond administrative duties. As a long-standing member of the IKF Playing Rules Committee, Mr. Frederickx contributed significantly to the evolution of the sport’s regulations, enhancing the game for generations of players.

Notably, Mr. Frederickx was instrumental in the development of korfball in Western Europe. His dedicated efforts were a catalyst for the sport’s expansion into France, Spain, and Portugal, laying the foundation for the sport’s presence in those nations today.

Beyond his official roles, Mr. Frederickx was a highly respected korfball referee, officiating at numerous events over many years.

In recognition of his exceptional service and dedication, Jean Frederickx was awarded the IKF Badge of Honour on July 24, 1993. This prestigious award stands as a testament to his legacy within the korfball community.

The IKF extends its deepest condolences to Mr. Frederickx’s family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him. His passion for korfball and unwavering commitment to the sport’s development will be greatly missed.

IKF Strengthens Partnership with Axitour to Enhance Refereeing Standards

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The International Korfball Federation (IKF) is delighted to announce the continuation of its partnership with Axitour, the provider of Axiwi communication systems. This collaboration underlines our shared commitment to equipping referees with high-quality communication tools, further enhancing officiating standards across the global korfball community.

On December 28, during the Korfball Challenge, we proudly received the material provided as part of this partnership and the established agreement. These tools will play a crucial role in supporting referees, ensuring smooth and efficient communication during matches.

Exclusive Offer for the Korfball Community

As part of this collaboration, Axitour is extending a special discount on Axiwi products to National Organisations and korfball referees. This exclusive opportunity aims to make professional-grade communication tools more accessible, contributing to the ongoing development and professionalisation of korfball refereeing.

For more details about this offer and how to access the discount, please contact us directly at office@ikf.org.

We are excited about the possibilities this partnership brings and remain committed to working with Axitour to deliver innovative solutions for korfball. Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to elevate the sport together!

Photo: Gertrude de Vries

Photo: Gertrude de Vries

Header images: korfbalfoto.nl

IKF partners with UNAOC to promote global unity through sport

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The International Korfball Federation (IKF) is thrilled to announce a new partnership with the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC) in support of the #OneHumanity campaign. This initiative underscores the transformative potential of sports to foster intercultural understanding, inclusion, and peace across the globe.

The #OneHumanity campaign, spearheaded by UNAOC, aims to unite communities through shared values of respect, diversity, and equality. As a sport that prioritises gender equality and inclusivity, korfball is uniquely positioned to exemplify these values and inspire collective action.

Through this partnership, the IKF and UNAOC will leverage the global reach of korfball to advocate for meaningful social change. By promoting intercultural dialogue and collaboration, both organisations seek to highlight how sports can serve as a platform for building bridges across cultural and social divides.

“Korfball’s inherent principles of equality, inclusion, teamwork and mutual respect align perfectly with the goals of the #OneHumanity campaign,” said Gabi Kool, President of the International Korfball Federation. “We are honored to collaborate with UNAOC to demonstrate the unifying power of sport and amplify its role in fostering understanding and inclusion worldwide.”

As part of this partnership, the IKF will integrate the #OneHumanity campaign into its activities, engaging players, coaches, and fans in initiatives that promote the campaign’s values. These efforts will include awareness campaigns, educational programs, and events designed to encourage dialogue and solidarity.

UNAOC’s High Representative, Mr. Miguel Ángel Moratinos, emphasized the significance of this partnership: “We are delighted to join forces with the IKF. Korfball’s unique approach to inclusivity and equality makes it an exemplary platform to advance the goals of the #OneHumanity campaign. Together, we can inspire communities to embrace diversity and work towards a more peaceful and united world.”

The IKF is committed to using korfball as a force for positive change, and this collaboration with UNAOC is a testament to the sport’s potential to inspire and connect people worldwide.

About the International Korfball Federation (IKF):

The IKF is the global governing body for korfball, a mixed-gender team sport that emphasizes equality, inclusivity, and teamwork. Through international competitions and development programs, the IKF seeks to use korfball as a tool for social change and global unity.

About UNAOC:

The United Nations Alliance of Civilizations is a United Nations initiative that fosters intercultural dialogue and cooperation. Through programs in areas such as youth, education, and media, UNAOC works to create a more inclusive and harmonious world.

 

Follow here this weekend’s KCL Challenger & Satellite Finals 2024-25

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This season’s IKF Korfball Champions League Challenger & Satellite Finals will be played from 17 to 19 January 2025 in Kocaeli, Türkiye. The event will be played in a round robin format over 3 days between the Hungarian Guardians SC, the Turkish Kocaeli University SC and Marmara University SC, together with the remaining Challenger Final team, Vosime.cz K. Prostějov, due to the late withdrawal of CK Vallparadis, KC Barcelona and KK Brno from the KCL Round 2.

All matches will be played at Kocaeli̇ Hasan Gemi̇ci̇ Sport Hall. and broadcasted live on youtube.com/ikfchannel and on www.worldkorfball.sport.

This is one of the three finals of the IKF Korfball Champions League 2024-25.

UPDATE 19/1/2025: K. Prostějov (CZE) and Guardians SC (HUN): Champions of the KCL Challenger and Satellite Finals 2024-25

Live streams playlist

Match schedule & updated results and ranking after Day 3

  • Vosime.cz K. Prostějov will receive the KCL Challenger Trophy. The other clubs compete for the KCL Satellite Cup.
  • The highest ranked of the other clubs in the total competition (including matches against Prostějov) will receive the KCL Satellite Cup.

Latest results (Day 1, 2 & 3)

Day 3 Image gallery (by Marco Spelten)

Day 2 Image gallery (by Marco Spelten)

Day 1 Image gallery (by Marco Spelten)

Live streams, results, images and social media

All fans around the world can follow this tournaments live on youtube.com/ikfchannel and on www.worldkorfball.sport (with live results and streams, statistics, scorers, play-by-play …), as well as on social media on the hashtags #KCL and #korfball, to find the best images, clips and highlights.

You can find all this content and much more visiting the official IKF profiles (see below):

► facebook.com/korfball.org
► twitter.com/korfball
► instagram.com/korfball_org
► tiktok.com/@korfball.sport

📄 All the information about this competition (history, format, criterias, rankings, etc.) can be found on: korfball.sport/korfball-champions-league

📄 All updates, quick links to live streams, pictures and much more will be available on: korfball.sport/KCL

More info: Korfball Champions League 2025: The Launch Of A New Season

Stay safe online!

Beware of fake profiles, pages, events, and live stream links impersonating the International Korfball Federation (IKF), the @IKFKCL official profiles or the local organisers on social media!

Scammers are actively using these fake accounts to trick people into clicking on malicious links, for example, encouraging you to watch a live stream, or join a Facebook group or profile, that can lead to identity theft, malware infections, and other cybercrimes.

Remember: All games will be live streamed and free to watch ONLY on IKF YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/ikfchannel. These same live streams will be available inside IKF’s data website www.worldkorfball.sport, allowing fans to follow each match next to all its statistics, scorers and results.

Read more

TWG2025: Korfball and Beach Korfball teams confirmed

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The countdown to The World Games 2025 (TWG2025) in Chengdu, China, has officially begun, there are now less than 200 days until the opening ceremony, and the International Korfball Federation (IKF) can now confirm the teams that have secured their spots for the korfball and beach korfball competitions at The World Games! 

In the beach korfball discipline, eight top-performing teams have secured their spots at TWG2025, : Poland, Chinese Taipei, Netherlands, Hungary, Belgium, USA, Australia, and China.  Based on the set qualification criteria, Netherlands and China qualified in April, at the WBKC 2024, while the other teams qualified through the IKF Beach Korfball World Ranking. The stage is set. With teams from four continents represented, each bringing their different styles of play, korfball fans should expect the unexpected as these teams battle it out in the sand in Chengdu. We cannot wait to find out which of the teams will take home the Gold medal! 

For korfball, the eight teams from around the globe have earned their places at the WKC 2023: Netherlands, Chinese Taipei, Belgium, Czechia, Suriname, Germany, Portugal, and host nation China. With a perfect mix of traditional powerhouses and emerging contenders, these teams represent the best and will be ready to put on a show in Chengdu.  

The World Games are a unique multi-sport event that celebrates sports outside the Olympic programme, bringing together thousands of athletes from across the globe to compete at the highest level. This edition marks a milestone for korfball, as both korfball and beach korfball disciplicnes will feature for the first time on the programme which is a testament to the sports increasing appeal. 

Stay tuned for more updates as the qualified teams prepare to represent in Chengdu. Follow our social media channels and website for exclusive content, behind-the-scenes stories, and all the latest news leading up to The World Games 2025! 

TWG2025 promises to be an unforgettable experience for athletes and spectators alike – we cannot wait! For more information check out our dedicated event page, and the official page on The World Games website. 

 

New World Rankings for Korfball and Beach Korfball Released

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The International Korfball Federation (IKF) has published the updated world rankings for korfball and beach korfball, taking into account the points earned by teams during 2024 events and the basic points allocated during the year. These rankings are essential for shaping the future of international competitions in both disciplines.

Beach Korfball Ranking

The newly released beach korfball ranking holds particular significance as it will determine the teams qualified for the Beach Korfball competition at The World Games 2025 (TWG2025). With beach korfball gaining prominence as a dynamic and fast-paced version of the sport, the ranking system ensures that the highest-performing teams secure their place in this prestigious event.

For more details on the beach korfball ranking and the criteria used, visit korfball.sport/bkranking.

Korfball and Beach Korfball Draws

In addition to its role in TWG2025 qualification, the beach korfball ranking will, alongside the korfball ranking, define the draw order for group-stage placements in both competitions. By basing the group formation on world rankings, the IKF aims to promote fair play and balanced competition, creating an exciting and competitive environment for all participating nations.

The updated rankings reflect the growing competitiveness of korfball worldwide, with teams striving to improve their standings through strong performances in international events.

For more details on the korfball ranking and the criteria used, visit korfball.sport/ranking.

IKF Council Awards Wild Card to China for The World Games 2025

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The International Korfball Federation (IKF) Council has officially decided to allocate the wild card for the last vacancy for the korfball competition at The World Games 2025 to China.

This decision reflects the IKF’s dedication to promoting the global development of korfball and its commitment to supporting the International World Games Association’s (IWGA) vision of an inclusive and representative event. The participation of the host country, China, is a key element in ensuring the success and visibility of the competition, aligning with the IWGA’s objectives.

The Chinese Korfball Association (CKA) has demonstrated significant efforts to improve both the quality of its national team and the governance of the sport in China. Last year has seen positive developments, including increased participation in international competitions and a growing commitment to strengthening organisational structures. These efforts, combined with China’s role as host of The World Games 2025 in Chengdu, were critical factors in the IKF Council’s decision.

As preparations for this prestigious event continue, the IKF looks forward to a highly competitive and dynamic korfball tournament that further enhances the sport’s global profile.

The World Games 2025 will take place in Chengdu, China, from 7 to 17 August, bringing together athletes from around the globe to compete in a diverse range of sports. Korfball has been a proud part of The World Games, showcasing its unique qualities as a mixed-gender team sport. The event provides a valuable platform to promote korfball’s values of inclusivity, teamwork, and innovation to an international audience, further solidifying its position in the world of sport.

Event info and updates here.

A New Year’s Message from the IKF President

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Dear Korfball Family,

As we bid farewell to 2024 and step into 2025, I am reminded of the immense potential of our global korfball community. 2024 has been a year of meaningful progress, significant milestones, and important lessons, but it has also reminded us of the journey ahead and the need to work even harder together.

Under the banner of our Better Together strategy, we have made strides toward professionalizing our organization, expanding the reach of our sport, and advocating for korfball’s core values of inclusivity, equality, and teamwork.

Achievements in 2024

This year has been defined by key accomplishments:

  • The IKF World Beach Korfball Championship in Pattaya, Thailand, where the Netherlands emerged as champions, claiming the Jan Fransoo Cup. This event not only showcased the best in beach korfball but also served as a qualifier for the World Games 2025 in Chengdu.
  • The IKF U21 World Korfball Championship in Kemer, Türkiye, where the Netherlands claimed the title after an intense final against Belgium, with Chinese Taipei securing bronze. The tournament highlighted the incredible talent of young players from 12 teams across four continents and was magnificently organized with the support of local volunteers and the Developing Sports Federation of Türkiye.
  • The formalization of Urban Korfball, a dynamic new format that brings our sport into vibrant urban spaces, fostering accessibility and reaching new audiences. Its official launch in 2025 will mark a pivotal moment for korfball’s growth.
  • The successful operations of IKF Europe, which continues to lead innovation, collaboration, and development across the continent.
  • The first-ever fully gender-equal refereeing team at the IKF Asia Korfball Championship, reflecting our unwavering commitment to gender equality both on and off the pitch.
  • Notable progress across Asia, where National Federations (NFs) demonstrated remarkable mutual support during the year, culminating in the IKF Asia Korfball Championships in Hong Kong. This has resulted in advancements in sport performance, organizational structures, and cross-country development, including an important step forward in the application for IKF Asia’s recognition by the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA).

These milestones are the result of collective efforts—from our volunteers and committees to the players, officials, and sponsors who make these events possible.

Looking Ahead to 2025 and Beyond

The coming year holds incredible promise, including the World Games in Chengdu, where we will showcase both indoor and beach korfball on the global stage. This is more than a competition—it’s an opportunity to align with the IOC’s strategic focus on gender equality, innovation, and youth engagement, and to demonstrate that korfball is uniquely positioned to lead in these areas.

We also look forward to the global launch of Urban Korfball, an exciting step in bringing our sport to new, dynamic environments. Meanwhile, the ongoing alignment of our strategy with key partners such as ARISF and IWGA ensures that we remain a respected and forward-thinking member of the international sports community.

Addressing Our Community’s Needs

While we celebrate our achievements, we also recognize the areas our National Federations are eager to see progress:

  • Ensuring korfball equipment can be produced and shipped economically, both in terms of time and cost. This remains a key focus as we work toward structural partnerships to scale efficiently.
  • Locking in a competition calendar with a 24-36 month perspective and confirmed host cities, enabling countries to plan ahead, especially important as travel costs continue to rise.
  • Transforming our competitions into highly engaging events for fans and athletes alike, rewriting the blueprints of how we organize such events—step by step, with a long-term vision.

On the marketing and commercial front, exciting developments are underway:

  • A global fan engagement platform is in its final stages of decision-making, promising to enhance how we connect with fans worldwide.
  • Commercial partnerships are actively pursued with support from our new expert committee, showing early success through partnerships like Axitour, which enhance referee performance and strengthen our development funding efforts.

A Call for Unity and Action

Korfball’s strength lies in its people. Our volunteers, officials, and supporters are the backbone of our community. Your dedication inspires us, but we need to amplify these efforts as we aim to grow korfball in every corner of the world. Whether by organizing local events, sharing your stories, or mentoring the next generation, your contributions make a profound difference.

As we prepare for 2025, let us approach the year with determination and humility, embracing the challenges ahead with a shared sense of purpose. Together, we can build on our achievements and create a future where korfball continues to thrive as a sport of equality, teamwork, and innovation.

Thank you for being part of this journey. Let’s make 2025 a year to remember—a year where we come together, work harder, and dream bigger than ever before.

Wishing you a joyful, healthy, and successful New Year.

With gratitude and resolve,

Gabi Kool
President
International Korfball Federation