As we enter the fifth week of the calendar year, we are excited to introduce a newly styled information pack. Recognising how busy life can be for many, our “What’s On This Week?” feature is designed to help readers navigate through all the upcoming activities and events.


The highlight of this week is set to be the IJF World Tour’s Paris Grand Slam, a dazzling spectacle where judo fans from around the globe are counting down the minutes. One of the most prestigious events of the year, this showdown will transform the iconic Accor Arena, also known as Bercy Arena, into a buzzing hub of excitement on 1-2 February. With 318 competitors from 54 nations gearing up for battle, as always, the stage is set for an unforgettable showdown. Stay tuned for our in-depth preview mid-week to give you all the essential information.
To prepare for such a prestigious event, many teams take advantage of the annual Herstal EJU OTC, a well-regarded training camp that provides the perfect opportunity to fine-tune their skills while engaging with the international judo community. This year, the camp will take place from 27-29 January, marking the second OTC of the year. It also serves as an excellent stepping stone for cadets and juniors, offering them invaluable experience and a glimpse of what lies ahead in their senior careers. Over the years, the camp has attracted Olympic, world, and continental champions from around the globe. Notably, it is also one of the few international training camps where Paralympians are likely to participate, creating an inclusive and dynamic environment for high-level preparation. For those who wonder, Herstal is a city and municipality in Wallonia, located in the province of Liège, Belgium.



France has even more to offer this week as the Erasmus+ JITA KYOEI 2 (JK2) project, in collaboration with the French Judo Federation, hosts an international training camp and workshop. Taking place from 30 January to 2 February in Maison-Alfort and Paris, this event provides a valuable platform for education, skill development, and cultural exchange within the judo community. It is a unique opportunity for participants to enhance their knowledge, refine their techniques, and foster connections in the heart of France.
Stay tuned for all the latest updates and in-depth previews of each event as the week unfolds. Don’t miss a moment, watch live online at judotv.com, where the excitement of judo comes to life. For even more content, behind-the-scenes insights and real-time updates, follow us on our social media channels @europeanjudo.
Author: Szandra Szogedi