As the Judo Union of Asia, we are actively engaged in shaping the future of judo following the closure of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. With our sights set on the Los Angeles 2028 Games, we have joined hands with the International Judo Federation to seek out innovations that will propel our beloved sport into a new era of modernity and progress.
In June 2024, National Federations were called upon to submit their suggestions for judo rule amendments, marking a crucial step in our collaborative efforts to enhance the sport. JUA President Mr. Obaid AL-ANZI participated in the subsequent discussions at the IJF Technical Meeting, where proposals were meticulously evaluated and media insights were taken into consideration.
The recent deliberations post the Abu Dhabi Grand Slam 2024 have been instrumental in shaping the future landscape of judo. Through fruitful exchanges with esteemed members of the IJF Executive Committee, leading national federations, and international experts, we have delved into strategies to elevate ippon judo, minimize penalties, and empower athletes to showcase their skills on the mat.
The JUA are committed to preserving the essence of judo while embracing its evolution in sync with the changing times. The forthcoming seminar in 2024 will serve as a platform to unveil the collective vision of international experts, guiding us towards a comprehensive rule update that will set the stage for the upcoming Olympic cycle. We eagerly anticipate the official presentation in January, which will herald a new era for judo at the Paris Grand Slam 2025, underlining our dedication to fostering a dynamic and athlete-centric judo environment.