The Gori edition of the Senior European Cup 2026 concluded today with medallists decided in the remaining seven weight categories: women’s -48 kg, -52 kg and -57 kg, alongside men’s -81 kg, -90 kg, -100 kg and +100 kg divisions.
Gold medals were claimed by representatives of Georgia, Azerbaijan, Switzerland and IJF. The hosts secured three gold medals on the final day, topping the podium in the -52 kg, -90 kg and +100 kg categories. In the heavyweight division, Georgian judoka swept the entire podium, taking all four medals on offer. Among them was bronze medallist Giga Tatiashvili, who returned to international competition for the first time in seven years. In 2019, he was crowned cadet world champion and claimed a cadet European silver medal.
The home crowd also celebrated the return of another former champion in one of Georgia’s favourite weight categories, the -90 kg division. Gold medallist Vladimer Akhalkatsi, the 2019 Junior World Champion, captured his first title in his new category, having previously achieved his success at -81 kg. His last gold medal came at the 2024 Rome European Open, and after a two-year absence caused by serious injuries, the world champion rediscovered the “taste” of gold on home soil.
According to him, he is back and determined to continue winning medals in the new division:
“I had a very long break in my sporting career because of a serious injury. I underwent surgery, and now I’m back. I also changed weight categories, and I think this was not a bad start at all. I moved into a very difficult and competitive division, I understand that well, and I plan to work hard for future success.”
He also reflected on his new opponents in the category, admitting that he faced difficult contests throughout the day and felt especially motivated in the final against a Russian athlete.
“I had tough fights and strong opponents. I was especially motivated in the final. Fortunately, I managed to win convincingly and let the local fans hear our national anthem.”
In total, athletes from six countries, alongside the International Judo Federation (IJF) representation, claimed gold medals at the 2026 edition of this event. Georgia finished top of the medal table with 4 gold, 6 silver and 8 bronze medals. Switzerland placed second with 3 gold medals, while Azerbaijan completed the top three with 2 gold, 1 silver and 6 bronze medals.
The next Senior European Cup will take place in Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina between 30-31 May 2026.
Author: Keti Bachvelashvili / Images: Mariam Gagnidze
Author: EJU Media