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IKF Signs MoU with IPDJ to Promote Fair Play Through White Card Initiative

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The International Korfball Federation (IKF) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Portuguese Institute of Sport and Youth (IPDJ) to strengthen the implementation of the White Card initiative in international korfball.

The signing took place during the closing ceremony of the IKF Korfball Champions League Satellite event in Lisbon, marking an important step in promoting fair play and positive values in sport.

The agreement was signed by Joana Faria, IKF General Secretary, and Lídia Praça, Member of the Executive Board of IPDJ. This partnership reflects a shared commitment to encourage respect, solidarity, and ethical behaviour both on and off the field.

“The White Card is more than a symbol; it represents a culture of fair play,” said Joana Faria during the ceremony. “Working together with IPDJ, we aim to make these values a defining part of korfball worldwide.”

Earlier this month, IKF announced the introduction of the White Card in international korfball. You can read the full announcement here.

White Card in Action

The Korfball Champions League Satellite also saw the White Card used in competition for the first time. During the match between Club Korfbal Castellbisbal (CAT) and SKK Prievidza Dolphins (SVK).

IKF referee Hilal Karas awarded the White Card to the Prievidza coach, Peter Busik, who quickly assisted an opposing player in need. This moment perfectly captured the spirit of the initiative: recognising acts of sportsmanship and cooperation.

Continuing the Journey

With the MoU now in place, IKF and IPDJ will work together to promote the White Card across international korfball events, ensuring that fair play remains at the heart of the sport.

IKF to Introduce the White Card in International Korfball

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The International Korfball Federation (IKF) is launching a new collaboration with the Portuguese Institute of Sport and Youth (IPDJ), through its National Plan for Ethics in Sport (PNED). Together, they will bring the White Card – Portugal’s positive fair-play recognition tool – into international Korfball. 

The IKF becomes the first international sports federation to adopt the White Card in an official and permanent way. This step reflects Korfball’s long-standing values: ethics, respect, solidarity, gender equality, and inclusion. The initiative is supported by the República Portuguesa (Portuguese Republic). 

Launching the Collaboration 

The White Card will debut at the IKF Champions League Satellite in Lisbon, Portugal, from 9 to 13 December. 

During the event, the IKF and IPDJ will sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to mark the partnership. The agreement outlines how the White Card will be used across IKF competitions in the years ahead. The IKF will also prepare practical guidelines and offer training and awareness sessions for referees, coaches, team officials, and volunteers. 

What is the White Card? 

Photo: Marco Spelten

Created by the IPDJ, the White Card highlights moments of respect, fairness, and good behaviour. It is the opposite of the Yellow and Red Cards: instead of punishing misconduct, it celebrates positive actions that elevate the spirit of sport. 

While the White Card has appeared in some national and European events, the IKF’s adoption marks the first time an international federation commits to using it throughout its competitions. 

Reactions to the Announcement 

IKF Secretary General, Joana Faria, said: 

“For the IKF, joining the White Card is a natural and unquestionable decision. Korfball is based on values that go far beyond competition: ethics, solidarity, respect, gender equality and inclusion.  

“Being the first international federation to formalize this membership reinforces our commitment to leading by example.” 

Lídia Praça, from the Board of Directors of the IPDJ, added: 

“The internationalization of the White Card is the recognition of the consistent work that we have been developing in Portugal. It is a sign that sport can be a space for civic and ethical education, with a global impact “ 

A positive future for Korfball 

This partnership strengthens the IKF’s efforts to promote ethics and fair play at all levels. The White Card will become a regular feature of our competitions, helping highlight the moments that make sport meaningful.