Paris Grand Slam 2026 Concludes with Thrilling Finals and Future Commitments

France - Ekhbary News Agency

Paris Grand Slam 2026 Concludes with Thrilling Finals and Future Commitments

The second and final day of the Paris Grand Slam 2026 served as a spectacular culmination of elite judo competition, marked by breathtaking performances, significant contractual agreements, and a vibrant atmosphere that celebrated the sport's global reach. The event not only showcased individual athletic prowess across various weight categories but also laid the groundwork for future international competitions, underscoring the strategic vision of the International Judo Federation (IJF).

A pivotal moment preceding the final bouts was the official renewal of the contract for the Ulaanbaatar Grand Slam. IJF President Mr. Marius Vizer, a key figure in the sport's global development, alongside His Excellency Mr. Battulga Khaltmaa, President of the Mongolian Judo Federation, formally signed the agreement. This renewal signifies a continued commitment to hosting high-level judo events in Mongolia and further solidifies Ulaanbaatar's position on the international judo calendar, promising more exciting competitions in the years to come.

With the administrative affairs concluded, the focus shifted to the tatami, where athletes vied for supremacy. The -81 kg category witnessed a nail-biting contest between Yuhei Oino of Japan and his opponent. The tension was palpable, with the match ultimately decided by a solitary 'yuko' score, a testament to the fine margins that define judo at this elite level. Oino's precision and resilience earned him the gold medal, capping off a remarkable performance.

The medal ceremonies, a hallmark of the Grand Slam events, were graced by distinguished personalities. Mr. Albano Carrisi, renowned International Judo Federation Ambassador, presented the medals for the -81 kg category, adding a touch of star power to the occasion. His presence highlighted the broader cultural and social impact of judo, extending beyond the competitive arena.

In the women's -70 kg final, Hungary's Szofi Ozbas delivered a stunning performance, clinching victory in 'golden score'. The match was a fierce display of determination, with Ozbas eventually securing the win by holding down her opponent, demonstrating superior grappling technique and mental fortitude. Her triumph was celebrated with the presentation of her medal by Mr. Benjamin Lakatos, Chairman & CEO of MET Group, a key partner supporting the event.

The -90 kg category featured an all-Japanese final, a testament to the nation's enduring strength in judo. Goki Tajima emerged victorious, captivating the crowd with an exceptional 'O-uchi-gari' (major inner reaping) technique. This move, executed with power and precision, not only secured his gold medal but also served as a profound example of the core values and traditional artistry inherent in Judo. The medals were presented by Mr. Patrick Ollier, President of Métropole du Grand Paris, underscoring the local support and significance of the event for the host city.

Alice Bellandi of Italy, the reigning World and Olympic champion, continued to impress, adding the Paris Grand Slam title in the -70 kg category to her illustrious collection. Her consistent dominance on the international stage reaffirms her status as one of the sport's leading figures. The esteemed Italian Minister of Agriculture, Food Sovereignty and Forestry, H.E. Mr. Francesco Lollobrigida, had the honor of awarding Bellandi her gold medal, highlighting the international diplomatic connections fostered by major sporting events.

The -100 kg division saw Dota Arai of Japan secure the gold medal through a perfectly timed footsweep, an elegant and effective technique that caught his opponent off guard. Arai's victory was characterized not only by his technical skill but also by a visible display of respect towards his opponent, embodying the spirit of sportsmanship that judo promotes. The medal was presented by Mr. Igor Tulchinsky, CEO of WorldQuant, further illustrating the diverse corporate partnerships supporting the IJF World Tour.

In the women's +78 kg category, the home crowd erupted in cheers as French judoka Romane Dicko claimed her third Paris Grand Slam gold medal. Competing on home soil, Dicko delivered a performance befitting a champion, much to the delight of her supporters. The Honorable Sunil Sabharwal, President of the CIFP (Confederation Internationale de Police et Sapeurs-Pompiers), awarded Dicko her hard-earned medal, acknowledging her significant achievement.

The men's +100 kg category concluded the day's elite competition with another all-Japanese final. Kanta Nakano emerged victorious after a technically demanding and hard-fought battle, earning his second Grand Slam gold. His tactical acumen and execution were on full display, securing a memorable win. The gold medal was presented by Mr. Masato Imamura, Deputy Chief Intelligence Officer of Dentsu Group, reflecting the global business interests intertwined with elite sports.

The overall success of the French team, securing a commendable number of medals, provided ample reason for the home fans to celebrate throughout the day. The Paris Grand Slam 2026, from the strategic contract renewals to the intense individual duels, proved to be a resounding success, leaving a lasting impression on athletes, officials, and spectators alike. As the event concluded, anticipation already turned towards the next destination, with a final acknowledgement: "Thank you Paris for another fantastic event. See you next time in Tashkent." This sentiment encapsulates the dynamic, ever-evolving nature of the IJF World Tour, promising more excitement and athletic excellence in the upcoming stages.

Ekhbary News Agency