The International Judo Federation has announced that the 2026 edition of the World Judo Masters will take place in Dushanbe, Tajikistan, from 18–20 December 2026.
As one of the most prestigious events on the international calendar, the World Judo Masters stands at the very top of elite competition. As part of the IJF World Judo Tour, alongside World Championships, Grand Slams and Grand Prix, it brings together the very best judoka in the world in an exclusive, invitation-only format.
The event welcomes the top 36 ranked judoka in each weight category. With no limit per nation, it offers a unique level of competition, where the strongest athletes compete directly against each other.
For the European Judo Union, this announcement adds further significance to an already packed calendar, presenting European judoka with yet another opportunity to assert their dominance on the world stage. Following a strong presence across the IJF World Tour, this additional elite event offers Europe’s top athletes the chance to shine once more, test themselves against the very best, and continue building momentum in the race towards Olympic qualification.
The sporting stakes are significant. With 1,800 ranking points awarded to the winner, 1,260 for silver and 900 for bronze, the World Judo Masters plays a decisive role in shaping the world ranking list and the hierarchy of international judo. It is widely regarded as the ultimate gathering of the best among the best. This will be even more significant with the 2026 edition being included as a qualification event for the LA28 Olympic Games.
Further details regarding the event will be announced in due course.
Source: International Judo Federation
Author: EJU Media