After years, better yet, decades, at the summit of world judo, Riner has shifted his gaze to the future, not just his own but that of the generations to come. With passion and purpose, he is laying down a new path for young judoka and that journey begins now, with the inaugural Riner Cup, set to ignite the tatami in Asnières-sur-Seine on 5-6 April. This isn’t just a competition. It is a vision, born from a heart full of gratitude and a spirit committed to giving back.

“I created the Riner Cup because I wanted to pass on my knowledge. Judo has given me a lot in my life, not only on a sporting level, but also in terms of values, such as respect, self-improvement and discipline. I wanted to offer young people a truly high-level competition, but in a caring, motivating environment, true to the spirit of judo. I also realised that there was a lack of events designed for young people, events that were serious, well-organised but also festive and accessible. With the Riner Cup, my goal is to make judo even more attractive, to inspire them to continue, to dream bigger. And then, in a way, it is my way of giving back to judo for everything it has given me. By putting my name on this competition, I fully embrace my role as a role model, and I hope to contribute to making this sport shine, both in France and internationally.”

These aren’t just words. They are the essence of a man who has conquered the world yet remains grounded in humility and hope. Riner is not only gifting young athletes a high-level experience, but he is also offering them a dream, wrapped in discipline and belief, guided by the core values of judo. Now, what better venue than the Arena Teddy Riner? A stadium bearing the name of a titan opening its doors to the stars of tomorrow. From cadets, juniors to seniors, the Riner Cup offers a spectacle of excellence with a twist that defies expectations:

“For me, the main innovation of the Riner Cup is the introduction of prize money. We know that judoka, even at a good level, don’t necessarily have large incomes. And yet, they train hard, make sacrifices and live for their passion. By introducing prize money, I want to send a strong message: the commitment of judoka deserves recognition commensurate with their efforts. It is also a way to put judo in the spotlight, to give it more visibility. We often talk about sports that attract attention thanks to money and awards… why not ours? Judo also deserves that respect.

“Right now, with the visibility I have after the Olympic Games, I want to take advantage of it to showcase this sport that I love. Use this notoriety to attract attention, inspire vocations and offer young people a platform to shine. The Riner Cup is that: an event that gives a real chance, that promotes career paths, and shows that, yes, in a sport where it is sometimes difficult to make a living from your passion, it is possible to believe in it and move forward.”

In a sport that often struggles in the shadow of more commercialised disciplines, Riner is boldly shining a spotlight where it is long been overdue. He is sending a clear message: judo matters. The sacrifices judoka make deserve to be acknowledged, respected and rewarded. Make no mistake! Bringing this dream to life was no easy task. 

“Launching the Riner Cup was a real challenge. I wanted to create a competition that would inspire young people but behind the scenes, there was a huge amount of work. The logistics, the organisation, finding the right partners… nothing was a given. We also had to find the right balance between the seriousness of the sport and a festive atmosphere, without betraying the values ​​of judo. And then, when the event bears your name, the pressure is high. I knew I had to rise to the occasion, not just as a champion, but as an ambassador for judo.”

It is evident that Riner has embraced every challenge with the same relentless drive that made him a three-time Olympic champion. But this time, it is not about his victory. It is about ‘Everyone’s’.

“For this first post-Olympic edition, the objective of this competition could be summed up in one word: SHARING. Above all, it is about bringing joy back, a moment of cohesion to the entire judo community. It is about creating a positive event combining competition, good humour and joy, with surprises for everyone. In the long term, our mission is to become a must-see event in the judo world for young people. Initially at the national level, and why not one day beyond France’s borders?”

That word ‘sharing’ echoes through every layer of the Riner Cup. It is a celebration of unity, of hope and joy. A gathering of the judo family, bound not by fame or fortune but by love for the sport. Yet, Riner’s dreams stretch far beyond this weekend.

“My long-term goal with the Riner Cup is truly to help talent emerge. I want this competition to become a benchmark tournament for young judoka, an unmissable event where they can experience a truly high-level experience. I know from my journey how much an opportunity can change everything in a young athlete’s life. Sometimes, all it takes is one fight, one encounter, one moment when someone believes in you to spark a vocation, a stronger desire to believe in yourself.

“Through this event, I also want to contribute to greater equality of opportunity. No matter where you come from, your starting level, or your club, you should be given your chance. Talent, passion, commitment… these are the qualities I want to highlight and promote. If the Riner Cup can help even one young person build a successful career, or even a career in judo, then I will have achieved something important. It would be a real source of pride for me and a way to continue to advance this sport that I love so deeply.”

In a world where opportunity is often unevenly distributed, Riner is using his platform to level the playing field, to create space where potential, not privilege, takes the spotlight. That’s the mark of a real legend and he knows it comes with weight.

“It’s true that I feel both immense pride and a great responsibility to be considered a judo icon. I know I am a role model for many young people, in France and elsewhere, and I don’t take this role lightly. My goal is to inspire, to show that anything is possible when you believe in yourself, work hard and never give up, whether on the mat or in life.

“Being a judo legend, for me, isn’t just about titles or medals. It’s a mission: to bring to life and transmit the essence of judo, through strong values ​​such as respect, rigor, and humility. And despite all my successes, I do everything I can to remain accessible, positive, and committed to advancing judo. It is important for me to continue to grow this sport that I deeply love, in all simplicity.”

Responsibility. Pride. Purpose. These are not burdens for Riner, they are motivators. He is not content to rest on his laurels. He wants to pass the torch, to make sure the light burns even brighter in the hands of the next generation. The Riner Cup is the manifestation of his journey, from a boy with big dreams to a global icon determined to give others the same chance he once had… but who motivated him?

“When I was younger, I had several sources of inspiration who guided and motivated me throughout my career. I am thinking in particular of legends like Michael Jordan, Pelé, and Muhammad Ali. What struck me about them wasn’t just their performances, but their mentality, their ability to dominate their sport, to handle pressure, to last, and to stay at the top. Moreover, they always had a broader vision, with a commitment to humanity and a philanthropic approach. That is what I admire most about them.

“I cited these examples because I greatly admire athletes who manage to manage both their sporting lives and their entrepreneurial careers.

“When I think of Michael Jordan, he was as successful in making history with his performances as he was in inscribing his brand (Jordan) across generations. Pelé, on the other hand, is the prodigy whose precocity made me dream. He performed very young, like me when I was starting out, and that really spoke to me. It echoes what I experienced, especially when I was at PSG Judo, where everything accelerated very quickly.

“But the real turning point for me was the 1998 World Cup. That magical moment when the whole of France vibrated together, regardless of origin or social class. That unity, that pride, that joy… it’s etched in my memory. It was that suspended moment that made me want to win for my country, to proudly wear the colours of France. And not just win for myself, but all together.

“And then, beyond the great names in sport, there is above all my family. My parents have always been there. My first coaches, my first fans. They instilled in me values ​​that have never left me: those of respect, hard work and humility. Without them, I wouldn’t be the man, nor the judoka, that I am today. They are my foundation, my rock.”

This weekend, Riner will lay the first stone of a truly remarkable foundation, the first pebble of a mountain for the future generation of judoka to climb. The Riner Cup is just the start of an incredible journey of giving back to the community, it carries the soul, the heart, and the fire of a true legend. If you are in Paris, don’t miss out on the chance to see the judo icon, Teddy Riner, inspiring young judoka and sharing his love for the ‘gentle-way’.  

Images: Gabi Juan / Philippe Millereau. Video: Teddy Riner

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Tournament on which also in the past competed Olympic Champion Barbara MATIĆ (gold 2015, silver 2020 – U70kg category), this year again come to Dubrovnik, but in spectator role only.

According to Klara MITROVIĆ, president of the Judo Club Dubrovnik 1966, the tournament host and member of the Executive Committee of the Croatian Judo Federation, this competition counts points for the European ranking and is for many a check for the European Championship.

Swiss Nils STUMP, world champion in the -73kg category from 2023 and bronze medalist from last year’s World Championships, is arriving. German Eduard TRIPPEL, who won silver at the Olympic Games in Tokyo in 2021, is also arriving.

There is also Daniel EICH, a Swiss, who lost the bronze medal match in Paris in the -100 kg category and took fifth place.

Then comes the current European Championships runner-up in the -52 kg category, the Frenchwoman Blandine PONT. Of course, there is also Iva OBERAN in the -63 kg category, who was seventh at last year’s World Championships. Her category, 63 kg, is the most numerous.

I am used to being in a category that is always the most numerous, but it does not pose a big problem for me. Although I always like to fight in front of the home crowd, it also brings a certain amount of pressure because I know that a lot is expected of me. However, as I said, I like to fight in front of the home crowd and I have not fought in Dubrovnik for a couple of years, so I am excited.

The best placed in the world rankings are Iva Oberan and Nils Stump, who are eighth, Daniel Eich is twelfth, Murad FATIYEV is nineteenth, and twenty-first is Vugar TALIBOV, another Azerbaijani, who, like Fatiyev, competes in the -90 kg category. His best result last year was gold at the Grand Slam.

Head of the Judo Club Dubrovnik 1966 and one of the coaches of the Croatian national team, Mateo SEMIZ, expressed his satisfaction at being able to perform in front of the home crowd at such a strong tournament at a press conference held this Thursday,

Strong names are coming, we have world champions, medal winners from European competitions, but also Olympic Games, and I believe that you will enjoy top-notch judo. The Croatian national team is competing with a quality team and we will certainly have something to show.

On Saturday, April 5, the qualifications begin at 8 am, and at 5 pm there will be a ceremonial opening, followed by the final block. On the first day, the tatami will feature female judokas up to 63, up to 70, up to 78 and over 78 kilograms, and male judokas up to 60, up to 66 and up to 73 kilograms. On Sunday, April 6, the fights will also start at 8 am (female judokas up to 48, up to 52 and up to 57 kilograms and male judokas up to 81, up to 90, up to 100 and over 100 kilograms).

Last year’s European Senior Cup was a record with 350 judokas from 28 countries from three continents. This year’s will ‘beat’ it to the punch. All Dubrovnik clubs are coming out with the strongest trump cards. 

Author: Mario Krvavac, Croatian Judo Federation

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At the very heart of this mission lies the EJU Kids Camp, a flagship project meant to elevate the role of judo in young lives. One of the 2025 edition is set to unfold from 23-27 April in Budva, Montenegro, a destination bursting with beauty and potential, and yet, this is only a step forward long term plans. “Hopefully we will be able to establish kids camp with every main event of the EJU. That would be an amazing chance for the kids not only to see but also learn from the best. – starts Malte.

Budva offers more than coastal charm. Its vibrant setting, rich with history and culture, adds something magical. This isn’t just a training camp, it’s about creating a joyful space where learning is wrapped in laughter and exploration. “Budva as a city is amazing. Not only does it have a historical city centre but it is also located by the sea which can add some extra fun for the kids.” – says Malte.

Nuno steps in to add: “Our primary goal is to provide a unique training experience for young judoka, developing their skills and promoting sportsmanship. We also aim to create a platform for cultural exchange among participants from various countries.”

Lessons Beyond Technique

For both Nuno and Malte, the real power of judo lies in its ability to teach life’s most vital skills: “Judo helps to accept that you will fall down but you always will be able to get up again. I think that is a very important mindset to have in life.” – Malte comments before continuing, “Judo also teaches about the values. These are applicable for all parts of life.”

Nuno follows up by saying, “We focus on instilling values such as respect, perseverance and teamwork through both judo training and group activities. Encouraging young athletes to support each other promoting a strong sense of community.”

When a child meets an Olympic medallist, listens to their journey and trains under their guidance, something awakens, a belief in what is possible. It becomes more than a physical journey, it is emotional, mental and spiritual. “At these camps, the kids are able to see very high-decorated athletes who can showcase how to be successful in judo and in life. I think it is very important to get the chance to hear personal stories. This camp stands out due to the involvement of Olympic medallists, including Nuno Delgado, who leads these daily sessions. The opportunity to meet elite athletes and participate in creative workshops and cheer for them as they accomplish victory, makes this camp a once-in-a-lifetime experience.” – highlights Malte.

A Celebration of Culture and Friendship

The mat is where it begins but the real story unfolds in the connections made beyond training. International camaraderie is core to this experience. Both, Nuno and Malte advocates of the following: “Cultural exchange elevates the camp experience by allowing participants to learn from each other’s backgrounds. This fosters mutual respect and understanding among young athletes from different cultures. Especially in times like these it is very important to understand different cultures and connect with them.”

One of the most powerful aspects of the EJU Kids Camp is its commitment to opening doors for everyone. No matter where a child comes from or what language they speak, the camp ensures a space where they are welcome. Nuno elaborates further: “We will have coaches that speak different languages so that we hopefully cover all the nationalities. Also the coaches are very experienced to help kids of different backgrounds. In Budva, we offer very good accommodations and full board in a very accessible pack for young athletes and their coaches, making it accessible for various national federations. We also actively promote inclusivity and welcome participants from around the world.”

Inspired by the Past. Building the Future.

Both leaders carry this mission in their hearts because they lived it. “I myself took part in similar camps while being a youngster and enjoyed the experience immensely. So I think kids need to have a good environment to develop themselves.” — recalls Malte. “Our journey in judo has taught us the importance of mentorship and community. We aim to share experiences and passion for the sport with the next generation, helping them navigate their own paths in judo.” — shares Nuno.

The legacy they are building is not temporary. It is built to last as they hope to inspire young athletes and their coaches to pursue judo at higher levels and build lasting friendships. The experiences gained will also contribute to their personal growth both in and out of the sport. These camps are integral to the EJU’s mission to promote judo among youth and their coaches, developing their skills and build a strong judo community across Europe and beyond.

In the end, the most unforgettable moments are often the simplest, a shared smile, a training session with someone admired, a dream kindled. The pair shares their final story: “Last year, we witnessed amazing interactions between young judoka, their coaches and Olympic champions, which left lasting impressions on everyone involved. These moments of inspiration are what make the camp truly special. Also the plus opportunity of watching first hand the European Senior championships close to the top athletes is a dream come true to any judoka.”

With individuals like Nuno Delgado and Malte Greppert lighting the way, the EJU Kids Camp is a home for dreams. It is a school for resilience and a playground for unity. For every child who steps onto that mat, it is the beginning of something unforgettable.

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The assistance is allowing them to hold an event for Polish judoka, which will be held on the 26th and 27th of April, has a deadline entry of the 24th of April and is organised by the club under the Polish Judo Association and Warsaw Mazowiecki Judo Association, co-organised by the Office of Sports and Recreation of the Capital City of Warsaw.

The ‘Warsaw Judo Tournament, Polish Cup for People with Disabilities’ will be held in the sports hall at the Integration School Complex No. 41 in Warsaw, Bartnicza Street 2 and is free entry for all those interested.

Student Judo Club Kobra conducts classes for children and young people with intellectual disabilities, and have already been involved in the EJU Get Together event held in Gdansk in 2024.

For more information on Student Judo Club Kobra, visit their wonderful social media platforms;

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JUDOKOBRA

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/judo.kobra/?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw%3D%3D

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In judo, responsibility is not just a rule, it becomes a way of thinking and acting that is built gradually through experience and guidance. From the first lessons, students are introduced to the importance of respecting their surroundings, teachers and peers. They learn that their behaviour, attitude and focus affect everyone in the dojo, not just themselves.

For example, when practicing techniques like throws or holds, a judoka must be fully aware of their partner’s safety. They are expected to apply moves with precision and control, never out of frustration or ego. This teaches them to think before acting, to be considerate and to take ownership of their decisions. When a mistake happens, a responsible student acknowledges it, learns from it, and tries to do better, not because they are told to but because they understand it is the right thing to do.

Outside of physical techniques, responsibility shows up in smaller actions too, arriving on time, keeping the uniform clean, helping one another to grow, and listening attentively. These daily habits shape a mindset that values effort, consistency, and contribution to the group.

Leski shares her own perspective on the term:

“Responsibility for me is a big thing because I try and I think everyone should try to be the best version of themselves. And with this showing young generations the steps that they have to go through to really become a champion, not only by winning on the podium, but with winning in life, with being a good person, with respecting one another, with including one another, and I think that’s a responsibility we take.”

The importance of this value cannot be overstated. In judo, a responsible person is not just safer, they are more trustworthy, more coachable and more respected. These qualities don’t stay in the dojo. They influence how someone acts at school, at work, and in life, turning them into someone who others can rely on, someone who leads by example. That is the deeper lesson judo teaches, to be a better member of the society.

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With JGV Schuh Ski Wien he won eight proud European Championship titles (Gerda Winklbauer 5, Edith Simon 2, Norbert Haimberger 1). From 2011 to 2022, Ernst Raser chaired the Vienna Judo State Association as president, from 2019 to 2021 he served as the vice president of the Austrian Judo Federation. He was also a proud 9th Dan. Judo Austria President Martin Poiger was affected by Raser’s death: “Ernst was one of the greatest personalities of domestic judo sports, he will always remain in our best memory, our sympathy goes out to his family.”

The European Judo Union would like to send their heartfelt condolences to Ernst’s family and friends at this difficult time.

Source & Image: Judo Austria/Sellner

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Maria CENTRACCHIO of Italy has been a terrific role model to many young women, accomplishing her dream of an Olympic medal in the Tokyo Olympics, and since dedicating herself to passing on her knowledge and further her impact off the competition tatami.

For sure I can say that being part of this kind of event last year was very enriching on both technical and relational aspects. I had the opportunity to improve my teaching skills and to learn how to communicate with young people from many different countries. It was amazing how they were interested in discovering new ideas and how well they translated them in their own judo, even in the following days of competition. Combining the seminar with the competition contributed to create a safe environment for the young athletes, and for me too was an exceptional occasion for teaching and learning at the same time.

On the 12th and 13th of April, many young judoka and their coaches will arrive in Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina for a very special weekend, learning from Kodokan Expert, NAKAMURA Misato, two-time Olympic medallist (2008, 2016) and three-time World Champion (2009, 2011, 2015) and taking part in an organised tournament where they can showcase their new skills.

In 2025, there will also be a new age division, now including U13, to give these young judoka an opportunity not only to learn but be inspired by an expert from the home of judo, Japan, as well as ‘European hero’ from their very own doorstep, encouraging them for the future. Along with Nakamura, HAGA Ryunosuke will be the expert in events later in the year, and the heroes will include Tina TRSTENJAK, Majlinda KELMENDI and Telma MONTEIRO.

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Meanwhile, the juniors are packing their bags for Poland as the Poznan Junior European Cup is heating up with 438 ready fighters from 23 countries. There is more! Over in Czechia, the cadets are prepping for an epic weekend at the Teplice ‘Millennium Team’ Cadet European Cup. Nearly 900 little legends are expected from 38 different squads! You can also catch all the Pan American action in Panama, as some of the cadet and junior crews are heading there for a transatlantic tatami showdown, with over 200 spirited judoka ready to rumble.

Don’t forget, you can catch all the brilliance live at judotv.com, and for behind-the-scenes snaps, dramatic slow-mos and more, stay locked on @europeanjudo.

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Over the past year, the Federation has made impressive strides across all facets of the sport, culminating in the official recognition of kata as a competitive discipline in Latvia in 2024. This integration has already borne fruit with the successful organisation of the country’s first national judo kata championship, a historic event that paves the way for international engagement and further development. The inaugural national championship held on 30 March, brought together passionate athletes, including many young pairs, signalling a strong investment in the next generation. Their participation reflects the Federation’s clear vision for the future, nurturing talent and fostering a culture of excellence from the grassroots level not only in ‘shiai’ but with kata events too.

On the eve of the competition, a comprehensive kata seminar was held for athletes, coaches and judges, led by esteemed experts Dr. Slavisa Bradic and Monica Piredda, both leaders of the EJU Kata Commission. Latvian Judo Federation President Mr. Vsevolods Zeļonijs also actively participated in the seminar, underscoring the leadership’s commitment to establishing a robust foundation for kata in Latvia. The session played a crucial role in forming the core of the future national kata commission and training new kata judges, essential elements for sustained growth.

As part of the ongoing preparations for the European Championships, the Federation has also announced the launch of the Kata Kids Festival, set to be held in conjunction with the Kodokan Kata Seminar. This initiative aims to further popularise kata among young athletes and increase its visibility nationwide. Dr. Slavisa Bradic expressed his satisfaction with the direction of the Federation, stating, “It was truly inspiring to witness the enthusiasm and energy of the young participants. The Latvian Judo Federation, under the leadership of President Zeļonijs and General Secretary Julija Lescinska, has done an outstanding job. The future of kata in Latvia looks exceptionally promising.”

Monica Piredda echoed this sentiment, adding, “The motivation and dedication shown by the Federation are remarkable. Their proactive efforts are already making a difference and the upcoming European Championships will undoubtedly be a highlight. It was an honour to support the organisation of their first National Championship and to witness the excitement of athletes stepping into a new chapter of their judo journey.”

As Riga prepares to welcome Europe’s best kata participants in 2025, the Latvian Judo Federation continues to build on its momentum, establishing Latvia as an emerging hub for kata and a stronghold of innovation and progress in the international judo community.

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Unlike many high-impact sports that retire their athletes by 30, judo opens its doors wide to the “veteran” community. Through various veteran events judoka in their 60s, 70s and even 80s continue to test their skills, push their limits and inspire others. Judo is not just about strength or speed, it is about technique, timing, balance and heart…and those qualities don’t expire with age.

There’s a misconception that competing means you have to be world-class. In veteran judo and other age-group competitions, events are grouped by age and weight, making competition fair, accessible and community-driven. Whether you started judo at 15 or 55, there’s a place for you on the tatami. It is not about medals, though those are always welcome, it is about connection, challenge and growth. Competing at an older age brings a unique and deeply rewarding kind of fulfilment.

Mental Health Boost

Engaging in competition provides structure, purpose and focus. It gives you a reason to train, to improve, to get up and move. It fights off the fog of isolation and the risks of cognitive decline by keeping the brain sharp and goal-oriented.

Emotional Strength

To challenge yourself in a competitive setting at 60+ brings a rush of confidence. It reinforces self-belief, re-ignites ambition and builds resilience. It is proof that you are still in the game, not just of sport but of life.

Connection & Community

You meet others with similar drive, stories and spirit. In judo especially, bonds are forged through shared effort on the tatami, age doesn’t divide, it unites. Your opponents become lifelong friends.

Redefining Ageing

By competing, you are not just keeping yourself active, you are breaking the mould of what aging ‘should’ look like. You are showing younger generations that vitality doesn’t stop at 40, 50, or even 70.

Judo is among a rare set of sports that champion longevity. Age may change the body but it doesn’t erase the will to compete. Whether you have trained your whole life or just found your passion recently, stepping onto the mat at 60 is more than an athletic act, it is a celebration of resilience, liveliness and endless potential. So no, you don’t need to be an Olympian. You just need the courage to keep showing up. Join our Veterans Tour, where the European Judo Union has a place for everyone, regardless of your date of birth. Is it for only European judoka? Not at all! The whole world is welcome!

EJU Veterans Judo Events 2025 [Age 30+]

• Riga Veteran European Cup
• Tbilisi Veteran European Cup
• Warsaw Veteran European Cup 12-13 March
• European Judo Championships Veterans Riga 22-25 May
• Maintal Veteran European Cup 27-28 September
• Jelsa Veteran European Cup 25-26 October

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