IKF - KORFBALL

The International Korfball Federation (IKF) serves as the governing body for the sport of korfball on a global scale. Established on June 11, 1933, in Antwerp, Belgium, the IKF plays a crucial role in organizing major international korfball tournaments, including the highly anticipated IKF World Korfball Championship. With its headquarters in Utrecht, Netherlands, the federation has a broad reach, encompassing 69 member countries distributed across five Continental Confederations: Africa, Americas, Asia, Europe, and Oceania. Officially recognized by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and affiliated with SportAccord, the Association of the IOC Recognized International Sports Federations (ARISF), and the International World Games Association (IWGA), the IKF is deeply rooted in the global sports community. The federation's primary objectives revolve around spreading the popularity of korfball worldwide and elevating the standard of play in its member nations. To achieve these goals, the IKF provides substantial support to its affiliated countries, offering financial, material, and structural assistance. The federation actively promotes korfball by establishing networks of contacts in various countries and consistently expanding these connections. Moreover, the IKF facilitates knowledge transfer on an international scale through exchange programs and specialized training courses. This strategy involves inviting selected korfball players, coaches, and administrators to contribute to the establishment of stable local organizations and structures within affiliated countries. In response to global events, the IKF has demonstrated a proactive stance. For instance, following the 2022 Russian invasion of Ukraine, the federation announced measures affecting the participation of the Russian Korfball Federation in international competitions, highlighting the organization's commitment to broader global issues. The IKF's multifaceted approach underscores its dedication to fostering the growth, development, and international cooperation of korfball, ensuring its continued prominence in the world of sports.