Antalya stages key test for Europe’s rising cadet judoka

Antalya is getting ready to welcome the next wave of European judo talent. On 7–8 March 2026, the Antalya Sports Hall will host the 31st edition of the “Millennium Team” Cadet European Cup, one of the standout events on the cadet calendar.

Europe’s future judo stars collide in Antalya this March.

Around 585 athletes from 24 countries are set to step onto the tatami, with 342 boys and 243 girls chasing podium spots. For many of them, this is a first real taste of high-level international combat, where every grip, every transition and every attack matters. The competition offers a rare chance to face almost the entire European field in just one weekend.

Turkish Judo Federation President Sezer Huysuz highlights how valuable this event is for the home nation. The coaching staff can closely track current form, study the development of their athletes and spot those who might one day make an impact in the senior teams. At cadet age, performances like these can shape the path towards elite sport.

Cadet results in Antalya could open doors to future senior success.

As hosts, Türkiye are entering a large squad and want to make full use of home support. The local crowd will push their team through every explosive Seoi-nage and powerful Uchi-mata, but international opposition from all over Europe will make every medal hard to win. The atmosphere should be intense from the first contest to the last.

Cadet National Teams Head Coach Mustafa Kalaycı stresses that this age group is crucial for technical and mental growth. International tournaments speed up learning under pressure and give athletes clear feedback on where they stand. The Antalya event will also act as a key reference point for seasonal planning and performance analysis.

The official opening ceremony will take place on Saturday, 7 March. Thanks to its strong line-up and broad European participation, Antalya once again confirms its role as a major hub for cadet judo. Fans can catch all the action live on JudoTV.com.

Source: EJU_News