8 Weeks Out — Get Ready for the 8th United States International Kyokushin Championships!

Osu! We’re now just eight weeks away from the 8th United States International Kyokushin Championships, returning on Saturday, January 17th, 2026, at the Albany Capital Center in Albany, New York.

If you’re planning to compete or for your dojo to attend this year’s event, now is the time to finalize your registration, book your hotel, and lock in your travel plans.

This year marks the first time the championships will be held at the Albany Capital Center — a modern, accessible venue designed to elevate the tournament experience for competitors, officials, and spectators alike.

What to Expect This Year
The 2026 USIKC will include:
- Kata
- Weapons Kata
- Semi-Contact
- Full-Contact Knockdown

Plus several upgrades for a cleaner, more polished presentation:-
- A center-raised tatami for fighting and kata
- Large-screen match projection throughout the arena
- On-site concessions
- A climate-controlled, professionally organized competition floor

Registration Is Open
Registration for the 2026 championships is now open through the Events page at: uskyokushin.com/kyokushin-karate-events

With only two months to go, divisions are already taking shape. Competitors and dojos are encouraged to register soon to lock in their spots, avoid the January rush, and give themselves the smoothest possible lead-up to Albany.

Official Hotel Options
Discounted room rates have been secured at three nearby hotels. Rooms at all locations are limited, and January events in Albany typically fill quickly. Competitors and families are encouraged to reserve accommodations early.

Renaissance Albany Hotel (Attached to the Venue)
- Rate: $189 + tax per night
- Last Day to Book: December 24, 2025
- Reservation Link: https://www.marriott.com/event-reservations/reservation-link.mi?id=1758634381222&key=GRP&app=resvlink

Fairfield Inn & Suites Albany
- Rate: $119 + tax per night
- Room Types: King or Two-Queen
- Breakfast Included
- Reservation Link: https://www.marriott.com/event-reservations/reservation-link.mi?id=1758159034249&key=GRP&app=resvlink

Hilton Albany

- Rate: $159 + tax per night

- Booking Code: 4IFK

- Reservation Link:

https://www.hilton.com/en/attend-my-event/2026-usa-ifk-international-championship/

- Reservations by Phone: 1-800-HILTONS

See You in Albany

The USIKC brings together Kyokushin practitioners from across the U.S. and around the world for a full day of competition, camaraderie, and IFK spirit.

Whether you’re stepping onto the tatami, coaching your team, or supporting from the sidelines, we look forward to welcoming you to Albany for an unforgettable Kyokushin experience.

Mark your calendars — Saturday, January 17th, 2026.

Eight weeks to go.

Osu!