Following is the speech by the Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism, Miss Rosanna Law, at the opening ceremony of the Fencing World Championships 2026 Hong Kong, China today (July 25):

Mr Abdel Moneim El-Husseiny (Interim President of the International Fencing Federation), Mr Aaron Ng (President of the Fencing Association of Hong Kong, China), esteemed guests and fencers, ladies and gentlemen,

     Good evening, everyone. It is a great honour to join you this evening at the opening ceremony of the Fencing World Championships 2026, right here in Hong Kong. A very warm welcome to our elite fencers, dedicated coaches, and passionate spectators from around the globe.

     This year, Hong Kong makes history as we host this prestigious event for the very first time. Over nine days - and we are already on day four - more than a thousand of the world’s finest fencers are battling for the coveted titles. The thrilling preliminary rounds have set the stage for what promises to be an electrifying run of semi-finals and finals. While our live audience relishes the action up close, millions more are tuning in worldwide through real-time broadcasts. This global spotlight not only underscores the beauty of fencing but also cements Hong Kong’s reputation as a premier hub for major international sporting events.

     Fencing holds a deeply special place in our hearts here. We are immensely proud of our homegrown athletes, whose outstanding performances and unyielding determination on the world stage continue to inspire us all. Their dedication and perseverance are the very essence of athletic greatness. By hosting these Championships, we fervently hope to pass this powerful spirit of resilience on to our younger generation.

     To the extraordinary fencers here tonight: you represent the pinnacle of this sport. Behind every masterful lunge, precise parry, and decisive riposte lies years of gruelling training and unshakeable discipline. Yet beyond your remarkable skill, it is your sportsmanship - the respect, integrity, and excellence you display - that truly elevates our sport and inspires the world. We eagerly anticipate a spectacular week of world-class fencing.

     I wish to extend my deepest gratitude to the International Fencing Federation and the Fencing Association of Hong Kong, China, for entrusting Hong Kong with this premier event and making our first-ever hosting a reality. My sincere thanks also go to our generous sponsors, in particular the Kerry Group for their tremendous support, and our incredible volunteers, who have brought this magnificent spectacle to life.  

     Finally, I wish the Championships a resounding success, and every fencer the very best of luck. Thank you.

Ends/Saturday, July 25, 2026
Issued at HKT 19:27

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