Lausanne Grand Slam 2026: Inclusive Judo Showcases Adaptive Athletes

The International Judo Federation’s World Tour made history in Lausanne, Switzerland, as the 2026 edition of the Lausanne Grand Slam opened with an unprecedented display of inclusivity. For the first time, adaptive judo athletes competed alongside elite World Tour judoka on the same mats, marking a milestone in the sport’s commitment to accessibility and diversity. Among the gold medalists on day one were Marina Vorobeva, Yamato Fukuda, Gefen Primo, Kairi Kentoku, and Eteri Liparteliani.

The event began with a symbolic gesture at the International Olympic Committee (IOC) headquarters in Lausanne, where Olympic judo legends signed a commemorative wall. International Judo Federation (IJF) President Marius Vizer also participated in a local masterclass, engaging with young judoka and reinforcing the sport’s Olympic values.

Inside the Vaudoise Arena, adaptive judo athletes shared the competition space with World Tour stars, a groundbreaking moment for the sport. Marina Vorobeva claimed gold in the women’s -48kg category after executing a decisive arm lock in the final. Russian Judo Federation President Sergey Soloveychik presented the medal, highlighting the international collaboration at the event.

Japan’s Yamato Fukuda secured his first Grand Slam gold in the men’s category by using an Ura-nage counter against his opponent. The victory was witnessed by IJF President Vizer and IOC Honorary President Thomas Bach. Fukuda later expressed his joy at hearing the cheers from children in the stands, emphasizing the sport’s ability to inspire younger generations.

In a tightly contested women’s -52kg final, Israel’s Gefen Primo emerged victorious, earning her fourth Grand Slam gold medal. IOC Honorary President Bach presented the medal, underscoring the event’s prestige. Meanwhile, Kairi Kentoku of Japan claimed gold in the men’s -66kg category after a dramatic Uchi-mata throw in an all-Japan final against Shinsei Hattori. IOC Member Petra Sörling awarded the medal.

Georgia’s Eteri Liparteliani, the current world champion, dominated the women’s -57kg final with a signature hip throw, defeating France’s Sarah Leonie Cysique. Olympic judo legend Klaus Glahn presented the gold medal, and Liparteliani reflected on the significance of winning in Lausanne, the Olympic capital, calling it a major motivation for future competitions.

The Lausanne Grand Slam continues with middle-weight bouts and more top judo stars set to compete in the coming days, promising further excitement in this historic tournament.

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