Before the start of the World Games: National Platform and representatives of the WAKO kickboxing federation discuss fair play rules

On July 7, experts of the National Platform of Sports Integrity joined a special seminar for representatives of the Ukrainian Kickboxing Federation (WAKO), which took place as part of the preparation of the national team for the 2025 World Games in Chengdu, China.

Referees, coaches and officials preparing to accompany the athletes at one of the most prestigious multi-sport tournaments in non-Olympic sports discussed with the National Platform representatives the key integrity threats faced by modern sport. The speakers of the event were Natalia Radchuk, Secretary of the National Platform, and Andrii Nekrutov, expert of the National Platform.

Nataliia Radchuk was the first to address the participants, welcoming them and presenting the main activities of the National Platform and emphasizing the importance of the role of each participant in the sports process in ensuring integrity.

In continuation of the topic, Andrii Nekrutov, an expert of the National Platform, focused on the legal aspects of combating manipulation of competition results. He explained the legal requirements for athletes, coaches and referees, and shared examples of how athletes are recruited to participate in match-fixing, in particular, through psychological pressure, financial difficulties or manipulation by third parties.

Participants learned about algorithms for dealing with suspected manipulation of results, received practical advice on recognizing risks, and discussed a specific case study of a scheme that has already affected certain sports in Ukraine.

This seminar was another step in building a sustainable culture of fair play among Ukrainian teams that will represent the country on the global stage. Participants agreed on a common understanding: success at the World Games is not only about victories in the ring, but also about an impeccable reputation outside of it.