The 38th edition of the European Shotokan Karate‑Do Association (ESKA) European Championships will take place from 28th to 30th November 2025 in the sun-drenched city of Portimão, Portugal.
Hosted at the modern Portimão Arena, the tournament is expected to gather more than 500 athletes, coaches and referees representing 28 European countries, showcasing the high competitive standard and broad appeal of Shotokan karate. l Shotokan and European Unity
Founded in 1986 in Ghent, Belgium, ESKA has for nearly four decades promoted traditional Shotokan karate across Europe under democratic, non-political governance.
The annual European Championships, usually held end of November or early December, have become a highlight of the Shotokan calendar — a venue where national teams and individual karatekas test themselves in kata and kumite, individually and in teams.
Organised this year by the national Liga Portuguesa de Karate-do Shotokan (LPKS) in cooperation with ESKA, the Associação Nacional de Artes Marciais (ANAM) and the local Escola Shotokan Karaté de Portimão (ESKP) — and supported by the Municipality of Portimão — the event underscores the city’s emergence as a major hub for martial arts in Portugal.
According to ESKA President Richard Poole, “in the 39 years that ESKA has held championships in various European cities, no country has hosted them better than Portugal.” For many elite karatekas across Europe, Portugal has become something of a “second home.”
What to Expect: Competition Format, Atmosphere, and Access
During the three days of competition, spectators can look forward to a rich programme featuring kata and kumite, individual and team events, youth, junior and senior categories — showcasing technical skill, discipline, and the spirit of Shotokan karate.
Importantly, the championship is open to the public with free admission, welcoming both local residents and travelling fans of martial arts.
For the athletes and delegations, this is a major opportunity to compete at a continental level — to not only fight for medals, but to connect with peers from across Europe, learn, and strengthen the bonds of the Shotokan community.
For the city of Portimão, the event is a chance to again show its capacity to host international sports events, attract visitors and raise its profile in the European karate scene.
Engaging With the Event: Online and Social Media
The official 2025 ESKA Championship page — and affiliated social channels — already invite karatekas, fans and national teams to register interest and follow event updates.
It’s a chance for the European Shotokan community to share stories, photos and build excitement, as athletes prepare their kata and kumite strategies for what promises to be a highly competitive and prestigious championship.
For national dojo and clubs, this may also serve as an inspiration — reinforcing the value of tradition, discipline and excellence that Shotokan karate carries.
Significance for the Broader Karate Community
While broader federations like the European Karate Federation (EKF) organize major continental championships under the wider umbrella of karate, events like ESKA offer something more narrowly focused — a celebration of traditional Shotokan values, technique, and community spirit.
For many practitioners and clubs across Europe, ESKA’s championships represent not only competition, but a reaffirmation of the roots and philosophy of karate — discipline, respect, character development, and the pursuit of excellence.
As the 2025 edition approaches, anticipation is high. Whether you are a competitor gearing up to step onto the tatami, a coach preparing a national team, or a fan of traditional karate, Portimão is ready to welcome you to what promises to be a memorable three days of Shotokan at its finest.
ESKA European Shotokan Karate-Do Association Facebook
ESKA CHAMPIONSHIP 2025 Portimao, Portugal | EUROPEAN SHOTOKAN KARATE-DO ASSOCIATION
ESKA 2025 – Portugal – JKA Sweden
Karate World: European Shotokan Karate-do Championship (ESKA)
ESKA Home | EUROPEAN SHOTOKAN KARATE-DO ASSOCIATION
ESKA European Shotokan Karate-Do Championships 2025 Instagram