On 25 September 2025, Mr. Costas Papacostas, OLY, President of the Cyprus Olympians Association, was awarded the prestigious Order of the Rising Sun, Gold and Silver Rays by the Government of Japan.
The decoration was presented by His Excellency Mr. Yoshio Yamawaki, Ambassador of Japan to Cyprus, at a ceremony held at the Ambassador’s residence in Nicosia. The award recognises Mr. Papacostas’ contributions to the promotion of judo in Cyprus and the strengthening of relations between Japan and Cyprus.
Established in 1875 as Japan’s first national decoration, the Order of the Rising Sun honours individuals who have made distinguished achievements in areas such as culture, international relations, and social development.
A former Olympic judo athlete, Mr. Papacostas represented Cyprus at the 1980 Moscow and 1984 Los Angeles Olympic Games, carrying the national flag at the 1980 Opening Ceremony. At the Moscow Games he claimed 10th place, a result that for 45 years has remained the highest achievement by a Cypriot athlete in the sport. Between 1980 and 1984 he trained at Tokai University in Japan, an experience that inspired his book Japan – The Eternal Aura of the Dojo.
In his acceptance speech, Mr. Papacostas affirmed:
“This award inspires me to continue working for stronger ties, deeper understanding, and lasting friendship between our two countries.”
Adding to the spirit of friendship, Mr Andros Karapatakis, Vice-President of the Cyprus Olympians Association and Fair Play Ambassador of Cyprus, presented Ambassador Yamawaki with a special gift on behalf of the Association.
At the ceremony were present, on behalf of the President of the Republic, Mr. Nikos Christodoulides, the Minister of Justice and Public Order, Mr. Marios Hartsiotis; on behalf of the Minister of Education, Sport and Youth, Dr. Athena Michaelidou, the former Minister of Education, Sport and Youth, Mr. Costas Hambiaouris; the President of the Cyprus Sports Organisation (K.O.A.), Mr. Yiannis Ioannou; the President of the Hellenic Olympians Association, Ms. Voula Kozompoli; and the Vice-President of the Cyprus Sports Organisation (K.O.A.), Ms. Kalli Hadjiosif.
This honour not only celebrates Mr. Papacostas’ personal achievements but also highlights the deepening bonds of friendship between the Republic of Cyprus and Japan, marking the first time a Cypriot has received this distinguished decoration from Japan.
