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LAHORE - Pakistan is all set to host the 8th World Taekwondo President’s Cup 2026 (Asian Region) from August 17 to 21 at the Jinnah Sports Complex, Lahore, marking one of the biggest international sporting events ever staged in the country. In a major milestone for Pakistan sports, a record 38 countries and more than 869 athletes, making it the largest World Taekwondo President’s Cup in history, will compete in the prestigious G3 event. The championship will feature competitions in Kyorugi, Poomsae and Para Kyorugi, with para-taekwondo included for the first time. Addressing a pre-event press conference at a local hotel, Pakistan Taekwondo Federation (PTF) Chairman Col (R) Waseem Janjua was joined by Asian Taekwondo Union (ATU) President Kim Sang-jin, ATU Referee Committee Chairman Ki Su Lee and ATU Vice President Rajendran Muthusamy. Col (R) Waseem Janjua described the championship as a historic occasion for Pakistan, saying the federation had accepted the responsibility of hosting the event as a challenge and had completed all preparations to international standards. “This is one of the biggest taekwondo events organised in Pakistan, with a record number of participating countries and athletes. We are fully prepared to host the championship in the most professional manner,” he said. He added that Lahore has emerged as an international hub for taekwondo and thanked the Punjab government, Punjab Police and security agencies for providing comprehensive security to all international delegations. He also acknowledged the vital support of sponsors and the media in ensuring the championship’s success. ATU President Kim Sang-jin expressed complete satisfaction with the arrangements made by the Pakistan Taekwondo Federation and praised its professionalism in organising such a major international event. “This championship will project a positive image of Pakistan across the world. I am delighted to be here and have been impressed by the hospitality and the cultural richness of Lahore,” he said. Kim also hailed the rapid development of taekwondo in Pakistan and announced that, following the successful hosting of this G3 President’s Cup, Pakistan would be entrusted with hosting an even higher-level G4 international event in the future. ATU Referee Committee Chairman Ki Su Lee assured participating teams that all competitions would be officiated with complete fairness and transparency. “Our referees are committed to maintaining the highest international standards. Every athlete will receive equal treatment, and we will ensure the championship is conducted professionally and impartially,” he said. ATU Vice President Rajendran Muthusamy praised the steady progress of Pakistani taekwondo, saying the country’s athletes had the potential to produce impressive performances and challenge for medals. “The standard of taekwondo in Pakistan is rising consistently. The passion and dedication shown by Col Waseem Janjua have played a pivotal role in the development of the sport, and I believe Pakistani athletes have an excellent opportunity to excel at this championship,” he remarked. Responding to a question, Col Janjua expressed confidence that Pakistan’s athletes would deliver outstanding performances, particularly in the Poomsae competition, where he hoped the hosts would secure medals. He also revealed that two Pakistani taekwondo athletes would represent the country at the upcoming Asian Games in Japan.