Europe Strengthens Institutional Unity After Appointing John Kotsifas as ETU Honorary President
The recent decision by European Taekwondo Union (ETU) President Sakis Pragalos to appoint John Kotsifas as Honorary President sparked a wave of reactions across the continent — not of division, but of reaffirmed unity and political maturity within European Taekwondo.
The recent decision by European Taekwondo Union (ETU) President Sakis Pragalos to appoint John Kotsifas as Honorary President sparked a wave of reactions across the continent — not of division, but of reaffirmed unity and political maturity within European Taekwondo.
The decision, taken by Sakis Pragalos, president of the ETU since 1999, was published on official channels and reported by MASTKD as part of an institutional consolidation process following the World Taekwondo elections in Wuxi.
John Kotsifas appointed Honorary President of the European Taekwondo Union
A comment that opened up space for dialogue
Among the reactions to the news, a newly elected member of the WT executive council publicly stated:
“I have nothing against Mr. Kotsifas, but personally I disagree with the appointment.”
His statement, made with respect, was received as a legitimate opinion within the democratic framework of the ETU and opened a brief institutional exchange that was clarified shortly thereafter by Pragalos himself.
Institutional clarity and continental support
Days later, Sakis Pragalos issued a statement reaffirming his attributions and explaining the reasons for his decision.
“According to the ETU Statutes, the Presidency has the exclusive authority to appoint or revoke honorary and advisory positions within the Union. Mr. Kotsifas’ appointment was made in recognition of his long and valuable contribution to our European Taekwondo family, and my decision will not be reviewed.”
Following this clarification, leaders from across Europe—including Antonio Barbarino, Juanjo Vega, Usman Dildar, Luc Sougné, Metin Şahin, and Anna Vassallo—publicly expressed their support for the president and the leadership that Pragalos has maintained for more than two decades.
Europe, an example of management and maturity
The exchange highlighted the level of political maturity and transparency that characterizes European leadership.
The ETU has maintained an efficient management model and a modern administrative structure, recognized by World Taekwondo as a reference point for sports governance.
Similarly, the Italian Taekwondo Federation (FITA), under the presidency of Angelo Cito, continues to operate in an exemplary manner in terms of sporting results, technical planning, and professional administration.
Both leaders, from their respective positions, represent the institutional strength and commitment that have made Europe a global benchmark in modern taekwondo.
Continuity and unity as principles
The appointment of John Kotsifas as Honorary President of the ETU transcends its symbolic value and recognizes his career, values his experience, and preserves unity.
Europe projects an image of stable leadership based on collaboration, respect, and the continuity of its leadership values.
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