Kathmandu: Nepal’s international taekwondo referee Rakesh Yadav is officiating at the prestigious Mount Everest Taekwondo Championship 2026, a world ranking tournament recognized by World Taekwondo. The championship began on February 16 and will continue until February 18, 2026.
Yadav, who is also an employee of Agricultural Development Bank Limited, has successfully balanced his professional career in banking with a long-standing commitment to taekwondo. Originally from Omsatiya Rural Municipality, Rupandehi, he has been actively involved in the sport since 1999. Over the years, he has served as a coach and contributed in various capacities at numerous national and international taekwondo competitions.
Since 2024, Yadav has been regularly officiating as an international referee (kyorugi) at global taekwondo events. His journey and achievements have inspired many young athletes, demonstrating that dedication to sport can go hand in hand with a professional career.
Based in Bhairahawa, Yadav is also actively involved in operating a Creative Taekwondo Dojang, where he plays a key role in grassroots development. His efforts have helped nurture young talent and strengthen the foundation of taekwondo in the region.
Sports communities and taekwondo practitioners across Nepal have expressed pride and happiness over Yadav’s selection as an official for a G1 world ranking event. His appointment is seen as a milestone not only for Rupandehi district but also for Nepali taekwondo as a whole.
The Mount Everest Taekwondo Championship 2026 (G1) is expected to attract top-ranked athletes from various countries, further enhancing Nepal’s international sporting profile. The inclusion of a Nepali referee at such a high-level event highlights Nepal’s growing credibility in international taekwondo officiating.