Whilst the excitement continues to build ahead of the European Judo Championships Cadets Gran Canaria 2026, preparations are already well underway for the next chapter. In 2027, the spotlight will shift to Rome, where Italy will welcome Europe’s most promising young judoka for a historic first-ever edition of the Cadet European Championships on Italian soil.
For the Italian delegation, Gran Canaria is more than just a championship to enjoy; it is a valuable opportunity to observe, analyse and understand the latest organisational standards and requirements expected at the highest European level. As Italy continues its strong return to hosting major international events, early preparation remains key. This renewed journey began with the European Adapted Judo Championships in Conegliano in 2025 and continues this year with the Under 23 European Championships in Naples.
Italy’s commitment to developing young talent is deeply rooted in its judo culture. Ranked sixth in the all-time Cadet European Championships individual medal table, the nation has consistently demonstrated the importance it places on nurturing the next generation. With Italy also set to host the European Youth Olympic Festival (EYOF) in Lignano Sabbiadoro in 2027, the country will provide a remarkable stage for young athletes, bringing together two of Europe’s most prestigious youth sporting events in one unforgettable summer.
The President of the FIJLKAM Judo Sector, Giuseppe Matera, expressed his pride in this significant milestone:
“Hosting the 2027 Cadet European Judo Championships is a moment of great pride for Italian Judo. I would like to sincerely thank EJU President Dr. Tóth László and the entire European Judo Union for the trust they have placed in our Federation and in our ability to deliver an event of the highest standard.
“This championship is not only an organisational achievement but also recognition of the dedication shown every day by our clubs, coaches, technical staff and everyone who contributes to the growth of our sport.
“Italian Judo has always placed great importance on youth development. The achievements of our cadet athletes on the European and world stages are the result of a strong pathway built from the grassroots upwards.
“To host the Cadet European Championships for the very first time in Italy gives this event a special meaning. We look forward to welcoming Europe’s brightest young talents to Rome and showcasing both our passion for judo and the quality of our organisation.”
EJU Sport Director and FIJLKAM Judo Sector International Relations Officer Alessandro Comi highlighted the wider significance of the event:
“The 2027 Cadet European Championships represent another important milestone in Italy’s renewed presence on the international judo calendar. Following the Adapted European Championships in Conegliano and the Under 23 European Championships in Naples, this will be the third consecutive European Championship entrusted to our country.
“We are proud of the growing cooperation between FIJLKAM and the European Judo Union. These events are not only competitions but opportunities to strengthen the development of judo and create lasting connections within the European judo family.
“Bringing a European Championship back to Rome almost three decades after the 1999 Junior European Championships makes this occasion even more meaningful. The FIJLKAM Olympic Centre is a true home of Italian Judo, a venue where generations of athletes have competed, including many of the sport’s greatest champions through the historic Trofeo Città di Roma.
“The Cadet European Championships will be a crucial step in the journey of Europe’s young talents. With the European Youth Olympic Festival taking place only weeks later in Lignano Sabbiadoro, these athletes will have the unique opportunity to experience two major international events in Italy within a single summer. It will be a celebration of youth, ambition and the future of our sport.”*
The countdown to Gran Canaria is almost complete, where the next generation of European judo stars will take centre stage. Once the final bow is made on the Canary Islands, the journey towards Rome 2027 truly begins.
Author: EJU Media