Baku hosts 2026 World Judo Championships

The 2026 World Judo Championships have commenced in Baku, Azerbaijan, featuring 626 athletes from 93 nations competing at the National Gymnastic Arena from October 4 to October 11.

Japanese competitors Ryuju Nagayama and Wakana Koga are among the key athletes to watch. Nagayama, the defending champion in the men’s 60kg category, seeks to retain his title, while Koga aims for her first world championship victory in the women’s 48kg category.

Other international delegations are also heavily represented. France has sent a significant squad, including Shirine Boukli in the -48kg category and Luka Mkheidze in the super-lightweight division. Algeria is participating with four representatives, including Kaïs Moudether, Dris Messaoud Redouane, Mohamed El-Mehdi Lili, and Yassamine Djellab.