Mayon, a 14-year-old black belt karate champion born in the UK, has been selected to represent England at the European Shotokan Karate-do Association (ESKA) Championships in Portugal. This remarkable achievement is now in jeopardy due to an unresolved citizenship application, leaving him without the necessary passport to travel.

Despite applying for citizenship at the age of 7 and again in 2020, Mayon and his family, asylum seekers from Sri Lanka, are still awaiting a decision from the Home Office. The delay jeopardizes his chance to represent England and undermines his years of dedication to karate—a sport he has excelled in and loved since early childhood.

Mayon’s inspiring journey has been supported by his mother, a fellow black belt, and his coaches, who have witnessed his exceptional talent and commitment. Yet, bureaucratic delays now threaten to deny him this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to represent his country and fulfil his dreams.

We, the undersigned, call on the UK Government and the Home Office to:

• Expedite Mayon's citizenship application to allow him to obtain a passport urgently.

• Implement measures to prioritize citizenship applications for UK-born children with exceptional talents in sports or other fields.

• Ensure no other young talents face similar barriers in representing the UK internationally due to unresolved immigration processes.

Mayon’s determination, talent, and potential make him a true ambassador for the UK. His ability to compete should not be hindered by a system failing to promptly address such critical cases.

Support Mayon’s right to represent England and showcase his talent on the global stage. Let us ensure no child born in the UK is held back from achieving their dreams due to administrative delays.