Baku Sets the Stage as 2026 Worlds Brackets Take Shape

The 2026 World Judo Championships are ready to begin in Baku after the official draw set the paths for both the individual and mixed team competitions. The National Gymnastics Arena will host the opening contests on Sunday, with the first fights scheduled for 11:30am local time in Baku (AZT), or 09:30 in Luxembourg (CEST).

For athletes and coaches, the draw is the final major piece of information before stepping onto the tatami. It confirms potential opponents, the running order and the structure of the competition, turning months of preparation into a clear route through one of judo’s biggest events.

International Judo Federation officials attended the draw alongside representatives of the Azerbaijan Judo Federation. IJF Secretary General Dr Lisa Allan welcomed delegations to Baku and highlighted the scale of the championships, which bring the global judo community together for eight days of competition.

Azerbaijan Judo Federation Executive Vice President Rashad Rasullu said the country was proud to host the World Championships again. He described the event as a stage for leading judoka from around the world to compete in the spirit of respect and fair play.

The draw has transformed anticipation into a real tournament challenge.

IJF Head Sport Director Vladimir Barta confirmed that 623 athletes from 93 countries are entered. The men’s -100 kg division is the largest category, with 56 competitors, underlining the depth waiting in Baku.

After the individual draws were completed, attention moved to the mixed team event. The starting category for the first round was drawn as +70 kg, giving teams an early detail to build into their match planning.

Refereeing was also part of the pre-event programme. IJF Head Referee Director Juan Carlos Barcos outlined matters concerning the contest review process for coaches, while stating that the IJF Refereeing Commission had selected its strongest possible group of referees for the championships.

The final preparations now continue for delegations, officials and organisers alike. With the brackets decided and the arena preparing for its first contests, Baku is set for a demanding week in which every category will bring its own pressure, opportunity and world-level Judo.

Source: IJF.org

Image source: IJF / International Judo Federation