In an official statement addressed to state physical education and sports agencies, as well as the national taekwondo community, the National Commission for Physical Education and Sports (CONADE) has announced for the first time that, as of today, there is no taekwondo federation in Mexico with current recognition. This statement directly implies that the Mexican Taekwondo Federation (FMTKD) does not have the official endorsement required by the General Law on Physical Culture and Sports, which represents a significant blow to the organization and a step toward the restructuring of the sport in the country.
The document, issued by CONADE and signed by Raúl Gilberto Aguilar Coronado, Director of National and Selective Sports Events, establishes the guidelines for participation in the qualifying rounds and the National Final Phase of the 2026 National Olympics in taekwondo. The commission emphatically clarifies that athletes will not be required to present proof of membership in any national or state sports association, as any such requirement violates the rights of athletes and contravenes the current legal framework.
“This is noted because, to date, there is no taekwondo federation in the country with current recognition, in accordance with the provisions of the General Law on Physical Culture and Sports”
The statement notes the absence of a legitimate state-level governing body. This revelation comes amid longstanding tensions between CONADE and the FMTKD, which has faced controversy over administrative irregularities and a lack of transparency in recent years.
To ensure the event’s success, CONADE has appointed María del Rosario Espinoza, an Olympic medalist and iconic figure in Mexican taekwondo, as Technical Director for the sport. Espinoza will be responsible for the planning and technical oversight of the national phase, although state sports agencies retain their autonomy to organize internal qualification processes. The commission recommends that these be carried out with Espinoza’s guidance to promote coordination and consistent criteria, thereby avoiding any adverse effects on the athletes.
CONADE reaffirms its commitment to an inclusive model, emphasizing that “sport is a right and a tool for social transformation,” and keeps its “doors open” for dialogue with all stakeholders, prioritizing the best interests of athletes. Furthermore, it notes that any act of abuse or misconduct may be reported to the Sports Appeals and Arbitration Commission (CAAD), the body responsible for ensuring legality in the sports sector.
This stance by CONADE could pave the way for reforms in the governance of taekwondo in Mexico, promoting greater inclusion and transparency. Athletes, coaches, and fans have reacted on social media, hailing the move as a step toward a more accessible sport, although some have expressed concern about potential gaps in the federation’s structure.
The 2026 National Games represent a key opportunity for Mexican taekwondo, and with this clarification, CONADE aims to strengthen inclusive sports for all. It is hoped that this statement will foster constructive dialogue among the relevant parties for the benefit of the sports community.
