In a significant development for the world of judo, it was announced that Kazakhstan will be the host country for the 2027 World Judo Championships Seniors Individuals and Teams. The official contract signing took place on Tuesday, 8th October 2024, during a pivotal meeting between Mr. Yerbol Myrzabossynov, the Minister of Tourism and Sport of Kazakhstan, and Mr. Marius Vizer, the President of the International Judo Federation (IJF), at the IJF headquarters in Budapest.
The meeting, which included Almaz Alsenov, IJF partner and advisor to the IJF president, focused on Kazakhstan’s progress and future ambitions in the field of judo. The signing of the contract signifies Kazakhstan’s steadfast commitment to judo and its global development, with Mr. Vizer presenting Mr. Myrzabossynov with the esteemed Herend special edition porcelain Jigoro Kano statue as a token of appreciation for the country’s support in advancing judo worldwide.
Reflecting on the evolution of judo in Kazakhstan, both parties highlighted the nation’s impressive achievements on the international stage and the growing popularity of the sport among Kazakh youth. Kazakhstan’s judo success reached a pinnacle this summer with Yeldos Smetov securing the country’s first-ever Olympic gold in judo at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.
The upcoming 2027 World Judo Championships in Kazakhstan will bring together top judoka from across the globe, setting the stage for their journey towards the Los Angeles Olympics 2028. This event not only underscores Kazakhstan’s emerging prominence in judo within the region and globally but also marks a significant milestone in the country’s engagement with the international judo community.
In addition to hosting this prestigious championship, Mr. Vizer and Mr. Myrzabossynov have initiated plans for the establishment of a representative office of the IJF Academy in Kazakhstan. This initiative is expected to enhance the professional standards of Kazakh and Central Asian athletes and coaching staff, paving the way for further progress and success in the world of judo. The Judo Union of Asia looks forward to this momentous event, which will showcase Kazakhstan’s dedication to judo and its commitment to the sport’s growth and development on a global scale.
Photo Credit: IJF