Lausanne Grand Slam integrates adaptive judo athletes in historic first

The International Judo Federation World Tour arrived in Lausanne, Switzerland, for the first time, opening its 2026 Grand Slam with a historic integration of adaptive and elite athletes. For the first time in the tournament’s history, adaptive judo competitors shared the same mats as the world’s top-ranked judoka at the Vaudoise Arena.

This structural shift in competition format underscores a growing institutional push for inclusivity within global sports governance. Hosting the event in Lausanne, the administrative heart of the international Olympic movement, amplifies the symbolic weight of this integration for European public life.

The emphasis on institutional legacy began before the matches commenced. At the International Olympic Committee building, Olympic judo legends signed a commemorative wall, while IJF President Marius Vizer led a local masterclass for aspiring athletes.

Marina Vorobeva secured the gold medal in the -48kg category by arm locking her opponent in the final, with her medal presented by Russian Judo Federation President Sergey Soloveychik. Japan’s Yamato Fukuda also claimed his first-ever Grand Slam gold using a decisive Ura-nage counter, watched by IJF President Marius Vizer and IOC Honorary President Thomas Bach. IOC Member Aïcha Garad Ali presented Fukuda's award.

Gefen Primo earned her fourth Grand Slam gold in a closely contested -52kg final, recognized as the more active player by the judges. IOC Honorary President Thomas Bach awarded her the medal. The -66kg category featured an all-Japan final, where Kairi Kentoku defeated Shinsei Hattori with a Uchi-mata to secure his first Grand Slam title, receiving his medal from IOC Member Petra Sörling.

In the -57kg division, current world champion Eteri Liparteliani of Georgia reclaimed the top podium spot against France’s Sarah Leonie Cysique. Liparteliani secured the victory with a signature hip throw and was awarded the gold by multiple Olympic judo medallist Klaus Glahn.

The tournament continues tomorrow with the middle-weight divisions. By merging adaptive and elite competitions on a single stage, the Lausanne Grand Slam establishes a new operational benchmark for international sporting events.