The International Judo Federation has taken a significant step toward strengthening the global development pathway of the sport with the introduction of two new international events dedicated to cadet and junior athletes. The initiative is expected to play an important role in shaping the future of the World Judo Tour.
According to the IJF, the first event, the Hoji Sharif Dushanbe Junior Grand Prix, will be held on 24 and 25 October 2026 in the capital of Tajikistan. It will be followed by an international training camp from 26 to 28 October. One month later, attention will shift to Uzbekistan, where the Saber Tashkent Cadet Grand Prix is scheduled for 24 and 25 November, also followed by a training camp running until 28 November.
Until now, competitive opportunities for younger age groups have largely been limited to world championships and continental level events. With the introduction of these Grand Prix tournaments, the IJF is establishing a more structured and professional pathway for emerging athletes. The events will follow standards similar to senior level competitions and will include prize money, offering both recognition and motivation for young judoka stepping onto the international stage.
The initiative is designed to bridge the gap between youth and elite competition. It provides athletes with early exposure to the demands, environment and professionalism of the international circuit. The inclusion of post-event training camps further strengthens this approach by creating valuable opportunities for athletes and coaches from different nations to exchange knowledge and experience.
IJF President Marius Vizer welcomed the initiative and emphasised its long-term importance. “The future of judo depends on our ability to support and inspire young athletes. These Grand Prix events represent an important investment in the next generation of champions and will help prepare them for successful careers at the highest level.” He also highlighted the broader cultural value of the project, noting that bringing together athletes from diverse backgrounds contributes to mutual understanding and lasting international friendships.
The selection of Tajikistan and Uzbekistan as hosts reflects the rapid growth of judo in Central Asia, a region that has increasingly established itself as a key player on the global stage. Cities such as Dushanbe and Tashkent have become regular venues for major international events, underlining their rising importance within the sport.
The launch of these two Grand Prix events marks a new chapter for youth judo. It combines high level competition, education and international exchange. Through this initiative, the IJF is investing in the development of future champions while reinforcing the foundations of a stronger and more connected global judo community.
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