ByEuronews with IJF
Published on 30/08/2026 – 8:18 GMT+2
The ECOLE MONT-OLIVET LAUSANNE GRAND SLAM at the Vaudoise Arena marked a significant event for judo in Switzerland. Prior to the competition, International Judo Federation president Marius Vizer and Swiss Judo Federation president Sergei Aschwanden signed a contract to host the 2028 World Championships in Switzerland. President Vizer then officially opened the tournament, joined by speeches from Emilie Moëschler, Director of Sports and Social Cohesion for Lausanne; Christelle Luisier Brodard, President of the Council of State of Vaud; Sergei Aschwanden, President of the Swiss Judo Federation; and Demien Antoine, President of the Deaf International Judo Federation. Additionally, Sensei Kazuhiro Mikami was honored with his 10th dan, the highest rank in judo.
The event continued to bridge elite World Tour athletes with adaptive judo disciplines, as deaf judoka competed alongside their peers on the tatami. In the -63 kg category, Angelika SZYMANSKA secured victory with a decisive arm lock against Manon DEKETER. IOC Olympic Games Executive Director Christoph DUBI presented the medals.
In the -73 kg final, with Swiss World Champion Nils STUMP observing, Daniel CARGNIN clinched gold through a powerful counter technique. The medals were awarded by ASOIF President Ingmar DE VOS. In the -70 kg division, Miriam BUTKEREIT of Germany was declared the winner over Giovanna SCOCCIMARRO in the final. CBH Bank CEO Simon BENHAMOU presented the medals.
The -81 kg final saw Abylaikhan ZHUBANAZAR triumph with a quick foot sweep for yuko. Medals were presented by IOC Member Mustapha BERRAF. The Swiss team delivered strong performances, highlighted by Aurelien BONFERRONI’s bronze medal for the hosts. The tournament’s final day lies ahead.
