The International Judo Federation (IJF) has revealed that the 2026 World Judo Masters is scheduled to take place in Dushanbe, Tajikistan, from December 18 to 20. This prestigious event, ranking just below the world championships in the IJF competition system, will feature the top 36 athletes in each weight category, with no restrictions on entries per country. The gold medallist at the tournament will be awarded 1,800 points of significant world ranking value.
Dushanbe has become a familiar host on the World Judo Tour, having organized multiple events and hosted the 2024 World Junior Championships. Tajik Judo Federation President Ismoil Mahmadzoir expressed pride in hosting the 2026 World Judo Masters, highlighting the country’s advancements in judo and its increasing global judo presence. The event is not only a testament to Tajikistan’s progress but also an opportunity to elevate the sport’s profile and development in the region.
The 2026 edition of the World Judo Masters will serve as a qualifying event for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games, adding further significance to the competition. With a focus on delivering a top-tier competition and promoting judo, Tajikistan aims to showcase its capabilities on the international judo stage. The IJF emphasized that the event will offer a platform for the world’s elite judoka and contribute to the growth of judo in Central Asia.
The World Judo Masters, an exclusive annual judo competition, has evolved to include the top 36 judoka in each weight class, without any restrictions on national representation. Previously limited to the top 16-ranked judoka, the tournament’s expansion in 2019 has enhanced its competitive field. In the most recent edition held in Budapest, Hungary, Japan dominated the medal tally with 11 medals, including four golds, followed by France and Georgia. France secured eight medals, while Georgia claimed six, with one gold medal.
