🥋 Get Ready for the 2026 IJF Judo Grand Slam — Paris! 🇫🇷
Mark your calendars! The IJF Judo Grand Slam Paris is coming up on February 7–8, 2026 at the iconic Accor Arena in Paris, France — one of the most prestigious stops on the IJF World Tour. With over 78 countries and 500+ judoka expected to compete, this is one of the biggest judo events of the year and a key early opportunity to earn ranking points in the new season.
🔥 What to Watch For — Top Countries & Athletes:
Paris brings together the world’s elite and future stars across all weight classes:
🌍 Countries to Watch:
- France 🇫🇷 – The home squad always draws big support and features top medal contenders across several categories.
- Japan 🇯🇵 – A perennial powerhouse with elite judoka across both men’s and women’s divisions.
- Brazil 🇧🇷, Korea 🇰🇷, Azerbaijan 🇦🇿, and Portugal 🇵🇹 – Countries with strong medal prospects across multiple weight classes.
🌟 Athletes to Watch:
Several top seeds and ranking leaders bring high-level skill to Paris:
- Joan-Benjamin Gaba (FRA) – World-ranked and one to watch in the –73 kg category.
- Dota Arai (JPN) & Takeshi Takeoka (JPN) – Strong medal hopes for Japan in their respective classes.
- Distria Krasniqi (KOS) – A proven medal threat in women’s –52 kg.
- Lara Cvjetko (CRO) & Patricia Sampaio (POR) – Leading competitors poised for big performances.
- Eljan Hajiyev (AZE) – High seed in the men’s middleweights.
This Grand Slam not only showcases top talent but also helps launch the season and begin building momentum for future World Championships and the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic cycle.
🤝 Adidas Judo & Sponsorship:
Adidas continues to be deeply involved in the sport. Through a multi-year partnership with the International Judo Federation and its global licensee Double D Adidas Combat Sports, Judo Gear USA, Adidas serves as an official partner and premium judogi supplier, helping support elite competition and athlete performance through quality gear on and off the tatami.
Whether you’re cheering for your nation, studying tactics, or gearing up with your Adidas judogi, the Paris Grand Slam is a can’t-miss highlight of the IJF calendar! 🥇🏆
