Day one was already a huge success for the European Judo Union, securing nine medals including one gold in the OTP Group Cadet European Championships 2025. Without even acknowledging potential medal success, President of the Bulgarian Judo Federation, Roumen STOILOV was already proud of the incredible turnout in their capital, Sofia.
First of all, I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to the International Judo Federation, to Mr. Marius Vizer and to the Executive Committee, for the assistance and cooperation they provided us in the organisation and conduction of the OTP Group Cadet World Judo Championships Sofia 2025.
With recognition, I would also like to emphasize the dedicated support of the Ministry of Youth and Sports, headed by Minister Ivan Peshev, the Ministry of Tourism headed by Minister Miroslav Borshosh, as well as the National Sports Lottery. Their assistance was indispensable for the organisation of this event.
This is just another feather in the cap of the Bulgarian Judo Federation, having already hosted an incredible senior European Championship event as well as numerous European events. The world-focus is well-deserved and will undoubtedly continue to be a top event in the IJF calendar of 2025.
Having the World Judo Championships here is not only a great sports success for Bulgaria, but also places Sofia at the center of the world sports stage, while at the same time strengthening its position as a cultural and tourist destination. I am proud that in the upcoming days our capital will become an arena of honour, fighting spirit and strength, embodied in young judokas from all over the world. It is an honour for the Bulgarian Judo Federation that these World Championships brought together representatives from 71 countries from 6 continents. I believe that this competition and the young athletes participating in it are a testament to how sport unites us. I hope that all participants feel at home here and are satisfied with the organisation.
Author: Thea Cowen