After a seven-year break, Denmark once again welcomed the Nordic Judo Championships, this time in the vibrant sporting city of Brøndby. Held at the renowned Brøndby Hallen from 10–11 May 2025 and followed by a training camp extending to the 13th.
For Søren Studsgaard, President of the Danish Judo Federation, hosting the championships carried a special significance. “I’m very honoured,” he said. “Even though I am now in my seventh year as President, this is the first time Denmark has hosted during my tenure, due to the pandemic years. That makes this occasion all the more meaningful.” He also expressed pride in the organising committee, praising their efforts in delivering a smooth and professional event.
Nearly 550 judoka took part, with entries from Denmark, Sweden, Norway, Finland, Iceland, the Faroe Islands, Åland and a special invitation extended to Estonia. Sweden led the way with 255 participants, while Denmark proudly fielded over 100 athletes, many of whom were able to experience international-level competition on home soil for the first time.
The event included Cadet and Junior divisions, offering a vital developmental stage for younger judoka to test themselves, gain exposure and grow in confidence. The atmosphere at Brøndby Hallen reflected not just competitive ambition, but a genuine sense of togetherness. Studsgaard highlighted the wider value of hosting such an event. “It is important for judo’s visibility in Denmark. Many people here had the chance to watch top-level judo, beautiful, technical matches that show the real potential of the sport. It helps promote judo as something that offers both personal growth and sporting excellence.”
On Saturday afternoon, the Presidents of the Nordic Judo Federations came together for their annual meeting. Topics included collaboration, future initiatives, and strengthening the regional judo landscape. For Studsgaard, the unity of the Nordic nations is about more than sport: “We share cultural values and a mutual respect. The Nordic Championships are like a meeting of sisters and brothers. They help bring international judo within reach for athletes who might not otherwise have that chance.”
There is a clear sense that the championship is gaining momentum in the post-Covid years. Last year’s event, hosted in Sweden, was widely praised for its quality and spirit, and the 2025 edition in Denmark has continued that upward trajectory. “My hope is that we keep building on this,” Studsgaard said. “A strong turnout shows strong development, not just in participation but in the overall level of Nordic judo. If we continue this path, we’ll support not only our grassroots athletes but help raise our top-level performance as well.”
Images: Magnus Nilsson
Author: Szandra Szogedi