While attention turns towards Tbilisi for the upcoming Senior European Championships, preparations across the 2026 EJU calendar continue at full pace. Among them, Naples is steadily shaping itself as a standout host for the U23 European Judo Championships, following a comprehensive inspection visit in recent days. EJU Vice President, Catarina Rodrigues; International Relations Manager of the Presidential Office, Tóth Fanni; and Head of Event Management & Broadcasting, Janity Tibor travelled to the Italian city to review progress and meet with the local organising team.
The competition will be staged at the PalaVesuvio, located in the Ponticelli district on the outskirts of Naples, a venue steeped in judo tradition, situated next to the renowned Parlati family club, known for producing top-level champions.
The visit confirmed that preparations are firmly on track, with strong collaboration between the European Judo Union and FIJLKAM, the Italian Judo Federation. Every operational detail was carefully reviewed, from accommodation and logistics to venue planning and delivery.
Reflecting on the visit, Ms Rodrigues noted, “Our team had a fantastic visit to Naples to prepare for the U23 European Championships. The preparation by FIJLKAM was excellent. We were honoured to have the FIJLKAM President, the Judo President and all regional officials with us every step of the way, from visiting the hotels and the venue to our final meeting. By meeting directly with the heads of every department, we were able to go through every organisational detail perfectly. We are very confident in the local team and look forward to a great event in Naples later in the year.”
This confidence was echoed by Giuseppe Matera, President of the Judo sector within FIJLKAM: “We are very pleased with the positive outcome of the inspection at PalaVesuvio, which confirms that Naples is ready to host a top-level event such as the U23 European Judo Championships. We are working with great determination alongside the institutions and the European Judo Union to ensure organisational standards that meet international expectations. This event represents not only a recognition of the work carried out by FIJLKAM and the Italian judo movement but also an extraordinary opportunity to showcase our young talents and promote the local area. We are ready to welcome the European judo community with passion, expertise and pride.”
With strong foundations in place and a clear sense of ambition, Naples is preparing to deliver an event that reflects both its sporting heritage and organisational excellence. Mark the dates: 30 October to 1 November 2026, as the European judo community gathers in Italy for what promises to be an exceptional edition of the U23 European Championships.
Author: EJU Media