Kazakhstan is no longer content with being a rising star in international judo. With a strategic blend of state investment, grassroots development, and international partnerships, the country is positioning itself as the sport’s powerhouse in Central Asia and a serious global contender.
A turning point came in 2023 when the Ministry of Tourism and Sports introduced sweeping reforms to national sports funding. The number of state-supported disciplines was reduced from 180 to around 50. This move focused resources on Olympic and Paralympic sports, along with traditional Kazakh games. Judo, already a source of national pride, remained a clear priority. The decision aligned with President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev’s goal of elevating Kazakhstan’s international sporting profile.
The government has since backed its vision with firm commitments. Kazakhstan will host the IJF Grand Slam series through 2026 and, in a landmark announcement made in Doha in 2024, secured the rights to host the 2027 World Judo Championships. The agreement was signed by IJF President Marius Vizer and Kazakh Minister of Sports Yermek Marzhikpayev. Marius Vizer called Kazakhstan a strategic partner and praised its growing role in global judo.
Major events bring more than prestige. They attract world-class athletes, international media, and technical experts, strengthening Kazakhstan’s sporting infrastructure and raising its global standing. Long-term development is also a priority. A new IJF Academy is being built in Astana to train coaches, referees, and sport educators from across Central Asia. Supported by the IJF, this initiative will expand regional expertise and professionalism.
The president of Kazakhstan Kassym Tokayev and the IJF president Marius Vizer
Kazakhstan and the rise of Judo
Judo’s reach now extends deep into Kazakh society. Since 2019, the “Judo in Schools” program has introduced the sport to children across the country. By incorporating judo into the education system, Kazakhstan is nurturing future champions while instilling values like respect, discipline, and physical literacy.
Elite athletes also benefit from robust support. For example, Azamat Mukanov received 12.5 million tenge, about 81,000 US dollars, for his silver medal at the 2013 World Championships. With this level of financial and institutional backing, Kazakhstan’s top judokas have the resources needed for consistent international competition and training.
While several neighboring countries boast rich judo traditions, one nation is emerging at the forefront through a combination of political stability, financial strength, and strategic alignment with the International Judo Federation. The coordinated support from national leadership and global sports bodies has created an environment conducive to sustained growth and international success.
If Kazakhstan maintains this pace, it will not only dominate the Central Asian judo scene but could also become a global benchmark for how focused investment and strategic planning can transform a nation into a world-class sporting force.
